Liver Transplant Treatment in Bengaluru for Nigeria

Liver Transplant in Bengaluru for Nigerian Patients | Cost

For patients in Nigeria facing severe liver conditions, the prospect of a liver transplant can bring many questions and uncertainties. Concerns about finding highly specialized care, understanding complex medical procedures, and managing the overall journey are often at the forefront. Accessing advanced treatment options close to home can sometimes be challenging.

Many individuals from Nigeria therefore explore international medical destinations, with Bengaluru emerging as a leading choice. The city offers a well-established healthcare infrastructure and a dedicated environment for complex procedures. Patients often seek the coordinated care and focused expertise available here for their critical treatment needs.

Bengaluru's medical landscape is characterized by its reputable hospitals and a concentration of highly skilled liver transplant specialists. The city provides a comprehensive support system designed to ensure smooth patient experiences, from initial consultation through to recovery. This includes access to advanced facilities and dedicated post-operative care within the city.

Is Bengaluru the right choice for your liver transplant journey?

What is a Liver Transplant?

A liver transplant is a surgical procedure to remove a diseased or damaged liver and replace it with a healthy liver from another person, either deceased or living. This complex operation is considered when the liver can no longer perform its essential functions due to severe and irreversible damage. It offers a new chance at life for individuals with end-stage liver disease, restoring vital metabolic and detoxification processes within the body.

Types of Liver Transplant Procedures

When is a Liver Transplant Required?

• End-stage liver disease, such as cirrhosis caused by hepatitis, alcohol, or autoimmune conditions.
• Acute liver failure, a sudden and severe loss of liver function.
• Primary liver cancer that has not spread beyond the liver.
• Biliary atresia in infants, a condition where bile ducts are blocked.
• Genetic metabolic diseases affecting the liver, like Wilson's disease or hemochromatosis.
• Certain severe hereditary liver conditions that cannot be managed by other treatments.

Pre-Treatment Evaluation Process

• Comprehensive physical examination and medical history review.
• Blood tests: liver function tests, kidney function, blood count, clotting factors, viral markers, tissue typing.
• Imaging studies: CT scan, MRI, ultrasound to assess liver condition, blood vessels, and rule out other diseases.
• Cardiac evaluation: EKG, echocardiogram, stress tests to ensure heart health for surgery.
• Pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacity.
• Consultations with a hepatologist, surgeon, nutritionist, psychiatrist, and social worker.
• Evaluation for living donor suitability, if applicable, including comprehensive medical and psychological assessment.

How the Treatment is Performed

The liver transplant procedure is highly complex and involves careful planning and execution, with steps varying slightly depending on whether it's a deceased or living donor transplant.

Recovery Process After Liver Transplant

The recovery period after a liver transplant is extensive and requires careful management. Initial healing time in the hospital typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, often followed by several months of outpatient monitoring. Patients will have restrictions on heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several months. Lifelong follow-up appointments with the transplant team, including blood tests and imaging, are crucial. Rehabilitation, involving physical therapy and nutritional guidance, helps patients regain strength and adapt to their new lifestyle. Adherence to immunosuppressant medication schedules is paramount to prevent rejection.

Risks and Success Rates of Liver Transplant

• Immediate risks include bleeding, infection, and blood clots.
• Surgical complications such as bile duct leakage or blockage.
• Primary non-function, where the new liver does not work immediately.
• Organ rejection, which can be acute or chronic, requiring adjustment of medications.
• Long-term risks include side effects from immunosuppressive drugs like kidney problems, increased infection risk, and certain cancers.
• Recurrence of the original liver disease in the transplanted liver in some cases.

The success rates for liver transplants have significantly improved over the years. Outcomes vary based on the patient's overall health, the underlying liver condition, and the quality of post-transplant care. Generally, the one-year survival rate for liver transplant recipients in established centers is often above 85-90%, with five-year survival rates typically ranging from 70-75%. Long-term expectations include a return to a good quality of life, although continuous medical management and monitoring are essential for maintaining the health of the transplanted liver.

Cost of Liver Transplant in Bengaluru

The cost of a liver transplant in Bengaluru is influenced by several factors. These include the specific hospital chosen, the experience and fees of the transplant surgeons, the type of transplant performed (deceased vs. living donor), the duration of hospital stay, required medications, and any potential complications or additional procedures. The comprehensive pre-operative evaluation and post-operative care also contribute to the total expense.

A liver transplant in Bengaluru can range from approximately INR 20,00,000 to INR 35,00,000, depending on the specifics of the case.

Support Services for Your Treatment Journey

• Assistance with medical visa applications and extensions.
• Coordination of hospital appointments and specialist consultations.
• Arrangement for airport transfers and local transportation.
• Guidance on accommodation options for patients and accompanying family.
• Dedicated patient care managers fluent in English.
• Assistance with financial estimates and transparent billing.

Important Medical Documents for Your Visit

• Current medical reports, diagnosis, and treatment history.
• Imaging scans (CT, MRI, Ultrasound) related to your liver condition.
• Pathology reports or biopsy results, if available.
• Passport copies and valid visa for both patient and accompanying family.
• Donor evaluation reports, if considering a living donor transplant.
• List of all current medications, including dosages.

Preparing for Your Procedure

• Follow all dietary restrictions and medication instructions provided by your doctor.
• Ensure all necessary tests and evaluations are completed prior to travel.
• Plan for a support person to accompany you during your stay.
• Organize your travel and accommodation details well in advance.
• Understand the post-operative care requirements and potential duration of stay.
• Maintain open communication with your medical coordinator for any questions.

Healing and Support After Treatment

• Strict adherence to immunosuppressant medication schedules to prevent rejection.
• Regular follow-up appointments and blood tests with the transplant team.
• Gradual resumption of physical activity as guided by physiotherapists.
• Adoption of a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and avoidance of alcohol.
• Monitoring for any signs of infection or complications and prompt reporting to the medical team.
• Psychological support for adjustment to new lifestyle changes.

Start Your Path to Recovery

Taking the step towards a liver transplant is a significant decision. In Bengaluru, you will find comprehensive care, experienced specialists, and advanced facilities ready to support you through every stage of your journey to renewed health.