Paediatric liver transplant is a challenge

First Person

Every time I perform a liver transplant on a child, I am reminded that this is not merely a surgery. It is a journey of courage, compassion and hope. Paediatric liver transplantation in India has grown tremendously over the past decade. Our country now ranks among the top nations performing the highest number of liver transplants annually, and the outcomes are comparable to international standards.

In most paediatric cases, the donor is a parent, often the mother or father, who selflessly offers a part of their liver to save their child's life. This act represents not just medical progress but the deepest form of human love and resilience. Yet, despite our success, challenges remain in the form of shortage of organ donors, high cost of treatment, and the unequal availability of advanced care in different regions.

The post-transplant period in children is especially delicate. Many of our young patients begin this journey with malnutrition and weakened immunity, making nutrition the cornerstone of their recovery. A diet rich in protein and essential micronutrients helps build strength, supports growth and prevents infection. At the same time, maintaining a fine balance in the immune system is vital to prevent rejection while minimising the side-effects of medication.

But healing is never just physical. I have seen families experience immense emotional strain, parents battling fear and uncertainty, and children struggling with changes in their bodies and routines. Counselling, peer support and a caring environment are essential to help them regain confidence. True recovery begins when the body grows stronger and the spirit begins to heal.

As these children grow older, new challenges emerge — slower growth, hormonal imbalances, fatigue or long-term complications from immuno-suppressive drugs. Yet, many of them go on to lead normal lives. They study, build careers, and start families. That, to me, is the real success, when a transplant not only extends life but restores its quality.

Today, technology is transforming follow-up care through telemedicine and artificial intelligence, making recovery more personalised and accessible. But true strength still lies within the families, especially mothers, who stand as both donors and caregivers. Every child who recovers after a liver transplant reminds me that survival is not the end goal, reclaiming childhood is.

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