Donor Evaluation in Liver Transplant

By Dr. Chetan Kalal — First DM Hepatologist of Maharashtra
Mumbai's Leading Liver Transplant & Liver ICU Expert

Introduction:

"Becoming a liver donor is an act of courage, love, and life-saving generosity."
— Dr. Chetan Kalal

When a loved one needs a liver transplant, the donor is the true hero.
But donating a part of your liver is a medical process that requires careful evaluation — for your safety and the recipient's success.

Who Can Be a Liver Donor?

As per Indian Organ Transplant Guidelines:
✔️ Close family member — Parent / Sibling / Spouse / Child / Grandchild / First Cousin
✔️ Blood Group Compatibility
✔️ Age between 18 to 55 years
✔️ Physically and Mentally Healthy
✔️ No Major Medical Illness

Why is Donor Evaluation Important?

Donor safety comes first.
The evaluation ensures:

• Donor will recover safely after surgery

• Donor liver volume is enough for the recipient

• No hidden disease or risk factors

"Liver regenerates beautifully — but your safety is non-negotiable."
— Dr. Chetan Kalal

Steps in Donor Evaluation Process

1. Initial Consultation with Liver Transplant Hepatologist

Dr. Chetan Kalal and his team will:

• Take detailed history

• Check risk factors

• Explain liver donation process clearly

2. Blood Tests

• Liver & Kidney Function

• Blood Group Matching

• Viral Markers (Hepatitis B, C, HIV)

• Clotting Profile

• Complete Health Screening

3. Imaging Studies

• CT Scan Liver Volumetry
  (To check liver size & remnant liver)

• MRCP (to see bile ducts)

• Ultrasound Abdomen

4. Heart & Lung Fitness

• ECG

• 2D Echocardiography

• Chest X-ray / CT Chest

5. Additional Tests

• Psychological Counselling

• Fitness Clearance from Physician

• Legal & Ethical Clearance (Mandatory by Government Authority)

How Long Does Donor Evaluation Take?

Usually 3 to 5 days if done on priority.

Risks of Liver Donation — Truth With Compassion

Most donors recover very well.
Common risks include:

• Pain after surgery (temporary)

• Bile leak (rare)

• Infection risk (controlled in ICU)

• Liver regeneration takes 6-8 weeks

"In expert hands, liver donation is safe and life-changing."
— Dr. Chetan Kalal

Recovery After Liver Donation

• Hospital Stay: 7-10 days

• Light Work: After 1 month

• Full Recovery: In 3 months

• No Long-term Diet or Medicine Restrictions

Why Choose Dr. Chetan Kalal for Liver Transplant & Donor Evaluation?

• Maharashtra’s First DM Hepatologist

• 15+ Years Experience in Liver Transplant Medicine

• Compassionate Approach for Donors & Families

• State-of-the-Art Evaluation Protocols

• Ethical, Transparent, Evidence-based Practice

Keywords :

• Liver Donor Evaluation India

• Donor Work-up for Liver Transplant Mumbai

• Safety of Liver Donation

• Best Liver Transplant Doctor Mumbai

• Dr. Chetan Kalal Liver Transplant Expert

Ready for a Donor Evaluation?

"Giving life is the greatest gift — but giving safely is our responsibility."
— Dr. Chetan Kalal