Liver Transplant Cost in India: A Complete Guide

Liver transplant surgery can be a life-saving option for people whose liver has stopped functioning properly due to chronic illness or sudden failure. In recent years, India has gained recognition for offering advanced liver transplant procedures at comparatively lower costs without compromising on quality. From understanding how the surgery works to the different types, liver transplant cost and insurance options, our guide covers everything you need to know about liver transplant in India.

What is a liver transplant surgery?

A liver transplant is a medical procedure where a diseased or failing liver is replaced with a healthy liver from a donor. The donor can either be an organ donor or a living person willing to donate a portion of their liver. The surgery is usually recommended for people facing serious liver conditions like liver cancer, cirrhosis or sudden liver failure.

Types of liver transplant in India

All types of liver transplant serve a specific medical need and come with their own approach and recovery process. Let us take a closer look at each:

1. Orthotopic liver transplant: This is the most widely performed transplant. A fully healthy liver from a deceased donor replaces the recipient’s diseased liver.
2. Living donor liver transplant: In this method, a living person donates a portion of their liver. The donor and recipient undergo surgery simultaneously.
3. Split liver transplant: In this type of transplant, a liver sourced from a deceased donor is surgically divided into two parts: the larger right lobe and the smaller left lobe. One portion is transplanted into an adult, while the other is transplanted into a child. This method allows two patients to benefit from a single donor organ.
4. Auxiliary liver transplant: This is used in rare cases, often for inherited or metabolic liver disorders. A portion of the donor’s liver is transplanted alongside the patient’s own instead of removing the entire liver.

Who needs liver transplant surgery?

A liver transplant is taken into consideration when the liver is too damaged to function and no longer responds to treatment. This can be because of conditions like chronic hepatitis B or C, excessive alcohol use, autoimmune hepatitis, liver cancer or sudden liver failure. It is also needed for genetic disorders like Wilson’s disease or in children with biliary atresia.

What is the cost of liver transplant in India?

Let us try to understand what the liver transplant surgery cost in India is like:

Factors influencing the cost of liver transplant surgery

The total cost of a liver transplant in India can vary significantly based on several key factors. The type of transplant also affects the cost. Living donor procedures usually involve additional surgery and recovery expenses for the donor, making them more expensive than deceased donor transplants. The patient’s overall health and any complications can further increase costs, as can extended ICU stays.

Coverage for liver transplant in health insurance policies

Health insurance may cover liver transplants, but not all policies include it by default. It is important to check if the plan mentions organ transplant coverage, hospitalisation, including ICU and diagnostics and pre- and post-hospitalisation care. Some policies also cover donor expenses, whereas others may only include the recipient’s treatment. Always review the terms or speak to your insurer for clarity.

Benefits of health insurance for liver transplant

Having medical insurance can make a significant difference when facing a liver transplant. It helps cut down the financial burden on your family by covering major expenses, such as hospital stays, diagnostics, surgery and medication. Many policies also offer access to a wider network of hospitals and experienced transplant surgeons. Some comprehensive plans also extend coverage to donor surgery, although it is often a separate and substantial expense.

Conclusion

Liver transplant surgery is a complex yet life-saving procedure, and India offers this at a fraction of global prices. However, with costs approaching almost ₹25 lakhs and above, having comprehensive health insurance for family or a critical illness policy is crucial. It simply makes sure that you are financially prepared to protect your health and savings.

FAQs

• What is the liver transplant price in India across different cities?

Liver replacement price in India ranges from ₹14.5-₹22.5 lakhs. The cost is higher in metro cities due to advanced infrastructure.

• What are the types of liver transplant procedures available in India?

India offers living donors, deceased donors, split liver and auxiliary transplants. Each is suited to different medical conditions.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.