Mangaluru: AJ Hospital and Research Center conducted a successful liver transplantation for a 62-year-old person, with a known case of diabetes and hypertension. The patient presented with abdominal distension, swelling of both lower limbs, and significant weight gain of 8kg within 15 days. He also experienced episodes of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) over the past three months.
A comprehensive evaluation, including blood investigations and imaging studies, led to the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with underlying liver cirrhosis. The patient was managed with a multidisciplinary approach, including a salt-restricted diet, diuretics, and other supportive measures. The family was counselled regarding the need for liver transplantation, and the patient was listed for the procedure.
As part of locoregional therapy to control cancer, the patient underwent Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) procedures twice — first in March 2024 and again in September 2024 following a recurrence of the tumour.
On November 13, the patient underwent a successful deceased donor liver transplantation. The procedure was carried out by an expert transplant team at AJ Hospital and Research Center. The patient made a remarkable recovery and was discharged on Nov 25.
The transplant team included doctors Raghavendra Prasada KV (medical gastroenterologist), Rohan Shetty, Ashwin Alva (surgical gastroenterologists), Ashwin Polnaya (unterventional radiologist), Thrivikrama Padur Tantry and team (general anaesthesia). The team was supported by doctors Sonal Astana (liver transplant surgeon) and Mallikarjuna (hepatologist) from Aster CMI integrated liver care team.