Paediatric Liver Transplant

Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu is a Hepatologist and Liver Transplant Surgeon in Bangalore who performs paediatric liver transplant. With a deep commitment to children’s health, he specializes in treating complex liver diseases and performing life-saving transplants. Dr. Bojanapu combines advanced medical expertise with compassionate care to ensure the best possible outcomes for young patients. He works closely with families to provide clear information, support, and personalized treatment plans. Trust in his experience and dedication as he helps children achieve healthier, brighter futures.

About Paediatric Liver Transplant

A paediatric liver transplant is a surgical procedure in which a child’s diseased or failing liver is replaced with a healthy liver from a donor. The donor liver can come from a deceased donor or, in some cases, from a living donor, typically a family member. This procedure is indicated for children with severe liver disease, such as biliary atresia, metabolic disorders, liver failure due to infection or autoimmune conditions, or congenital liver abnormalities. The transplant aims to restore normal liver function and improve the child’s quality of life. Patients can expect a hospital stay of several weeks, followed by lifelong immunosuppressive medication to prevent organ rejection. Regular medical follow-ups are essential to monitor the child’s recovery and manage any complications.

After the transplant, children undergo extensive monitoring and rehabilitation to ensure the new liver functions properly. They may experience side effects from immunosuppressants, such as increased susceptibility to infections or weight gain, which require careful management. Emotional and psychological support is also crucial for both the child and the family. While the procedure carries risks, including rejection and complications from surgery, it offers a life-saving treatment for children with end-stage liver disease. Success rates have improved significantly with advances in surgical techniques and post-transplant care, allowing many children to lead healthy, active lives.

Key Steps / What to Expect

• Pre-transplant evaluation and diagnosis
• Listing for transplant and waiting period
• Surgical transplantation and anesthesia
• Post-operative care and ICU monitoring
• Long-term immunosuppression and follow-up

Dr. Bojanapu Approach

Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu employs a meticulous and patient-centered approach to paediatric liver transplant, focusing on precise surgical techniques and advanced technologies to ensure optimal outcomes. He utilizes minimally invasive techniques where possible, along with state-of-the-art imaging and monitoring systems to enhance surgical accuracy and reduce recovery times. His team employs innovative graft preservation methods and immunosuppressive protocols tailored to the unique needs of children, minimizing rejection risks and complications.

The outcomes of his approach have been consistently positive, with high graft survival rates and improved long-term quality of life for paediatric patients. Dr. Bojanapu’s emphasis on multidisciplinary care, involving paediatricians, surgeons, and transplant coordinators, ensures comprehensive pre- and post-transplant management. His dedication to continuous learning and innovation has positioned him as a leading figure in paediatric liver transplantation, offering hope and better futures for young patients and their families.

Who is a Candidate

Children with severe liver disease who have not responded to other treatments may be considered for a paediatric liver transplant. This includes conditions such as biliary atresia, metabolic liver disorders, cirrhosis, and acute liver failure.

• Diagnosis of end-stage liver disease confirmed by medical tests
• Failure of medical or surgical treatments to improve liver function
• Age between 1 month and 18 years
• Presence of complications like jaundice, ascites, or coagulopathy
• Parental consent and ability to commit to long-term follow-up care

The Procedure

The paediatric liver transplant involves replacing the damaged liver with a healthy donor liver, either from a deceased donor or a living donor. The surgery typically lasts 6–12 hours, during which the surgeon connects the new liver’s blood vessels and bile ducts to the child’s body.

Post-surgery, the child is closely monitored in the intensive care unit. Immunosuppressive medications are prescribed immediately to prevent organ rejection. The donor liver begins functioning within days, and the child is gradually transitioned to a regular hospital ward for further recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery typically takes several weeks, with the child requiring regular medical check-ups and adherence to a strict medication regimen. The multidisciplinary team provides support for nutritional needs, physical therapy, and psychological well-being throughout the process.

• Strict adherence to immunosuppressant medications to prevent rejection
• Regular follow-up appointments for liver function tests and imaging
• Dietary modifications to support liver health and overall growth
• Psychological counselling for the child and family to manage post-transplant stress

Outcomes and Success Rates

Paediatric liver transplants in India have a high success rate, with 1-year survival exceeding 90% and 5-year survival rates around 85%. Long-term outcomes depend on proper medication adherence, regular monitoring, and early detection of complications such as rejection or infection.

Our clinic reports consistent success rates due to a dedicated paediatric transplant team, advanced surgical techniques, and comprehensive post-transplant care. Children who receive timely transplants often achieve normal growth and quality of life with appropriate follow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions