🔹 LIVING DONOR LIVER TRANSPLANT (LDLT) FAQs

What is living donor liver transplantation (LDLT)?

Living donor liver transplantation is a procedure in which a portion of a healthy person’s liver is transplanted into a patient with advanced liver disease. Both the donor’s and recipient’s livers regenerate over time.

Who can be a living liver donor?

A living liver donor is usually a healthy adult who:

• Is medically and psychologically fit

• Has compatible blood group

• Has adequate liver volume

• Volunteers without pressure or coercion

Donors are often close relatives, but unrelated donors may be considered under legal and ethical regulations.

Is living donor liver transplantation safe for the donor?

LDLT is generally safe when performed at experienced centres, but it is major surgery. Donors face surgical risks such as infection, bleeding, bile leaks, and a small risk of serious complications. Donor safety is always the top priority.

How long does it take for a donor’s liver to recover?

The donor’s liver typically regenerates to near-normal size within 6–8 weeks, although full recovery and return to normal activity may take several months.

What evaluations does a living liver donor undergo?

Donor evaluation includes:

• Blood tests and imaging

• Liver volume assessment

• Cardiac and pulmonary evaluation

• Psychological assessment

• Independent donor advocacy

The process is designed to ensure donor safety and informed consent.

Can unrelated donors give part of their liver?

In some cases, unrelated donors may be allowed, but this requires strict legal approval, ethics committee review, and government authorization to prevent commercial donation.

What is the success rate of living donor liver transplantation?

Success depends on multiple factors including recipient condition, timing of transplant, surgical expertise, and post-transplant care. Outcomes at experienced centres are comparable to deceased donor transplantation.

Is living donor transplant the only option in India?

Due to limited availability of deceased donor organs in India, living donor transplantation is a commonly used and effective option, particularly when timely transplantation is needed.

What are the risks to the recipient after LDLT?

Recipients face risks similar to other liver transplants, including infection, rejection, vascular or biliary complications, and medication-related side effects. Lifelong follow-up is required.

Can living donor transplantation be planned in advance?

Yes. One advantage of LDLT is the ability to plan the transplant at an optimal time rather than waiting for organ availability, which can improve outcomes in selected patients.

Does Dr Chetan Kalal manage living donor transplant care?

Dr Chetan Kalal is involved in the medical management of living donor liver transplant patients, including pre-transplant evaluation, transplant timing decisions, and post-transplant aftercare.

Can international or NRI patients opt for living donor transplantation in India?

Yes. International and NRI patients often undergo living donor transplantation in India, with structured evaluation, post-operative follow-up, and virtual aftercare coordination.

How can families discuss living donor liver transplantation options?

Families can discuss living donor transplant evaluation, donor eligibility, and timing through in-person or virtual consultations via the official website:
https://www.drchetankalal.com