Steps Before Liver Transplant
By Dr. Chetan Kalal — First DM Hepatologist of Maharashtra
Leading Liver Transplant & Liver ICU Expert | Mumbai
Why Do I Need Tests Before Liver Transplant?
Liver transplant is not an emergency surgery done overnight.
It needs preparation — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
“Your body has to be ready for the new liver. Your family has to be ready for the new life.”
– Dr. Chetan Kalal
7 Essential Steps Before Liver Transplant
1. Consultation with Liver Transplant Hepatologist
Your journey starts with a detailed OPD consultation.
Discussion about:
Liver condition
Treatment so far
Symptoms & lifestyle
Transplant requirement
2. Blood Tests & Liver Function Assessment
Liver function test (LFT)
Kidney function test (KFT)
Clotting profile
MELD Score calculation
These tests tell us how sick your liver is.
3. Heart & Lung Fitness Tests
2D Echocardiography
Stress Test or CT Coronary Angio
Chest X-ray
Pulmonary Function Test
To check whether your heart and lungs can handle transplant surgery.
4. Cancer & Infection Screening
AFP for Liver Cancer
TB (Tuberculosis) Testing
HIV / Hepatitis B / Hepatitis C Tests
Dental Clearance
Urine and Stool Cultures
No hidden infection or cancer should be present.
5. Imaging & Special Liver Tests
Ultrasound Abdomen
CT Scan / MRI Liver
Fibroscan
Liver Biopsy (if needed)
These show the liver structure and blood flow.
6. Nutrition & Fitness Evaluation
Weight Check & Muscle Mass Measurement
Dietician Counselling
Protein Supplement Guidance
Physiotherapy if Weak
Strong Body = Faster Recovery.
7. Psychosocial & Financial Preparation
Family Counselling
Financial Planning & Insurance
Organ Matching (Deceased or Living Donor)
Preparing for Hospital Stay
This step is equally important.
How Long Does This Evaluation Take?
On Average:
⏰ 3 to 5 days in a good Liver Transplant Centre
Faster if urgent liver failure
Slower if multiple health issues need treatment
Final Step — Transplant Team Discussion
Once all reports are ready:
Transplant Hepatologist
Liver Transplant Surgeon
Cardiologist
Anesthetist
Nutritionist
They all sit together and take the final call about your transplant readiness.
Why Choose Dr. Chetan Kalal for Liver Transplant Care?
"Liver transplant is not just a surgery — it is a lifelong partnership of care between patient, family, and doctor."
— Dr. Chetan Kalal
✔️ First DM Hepatologist of Maharashtra
✔️ Specialist in Critical Liver ICU Care
✔️ Expertise in Pre & Post Liver Transplant Management
✔️ Mumbai’s Leading Liver Transplant Doctor
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