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What a transplant surgeon does

A transplant surgeon replaces a failing organ with a healthy one from a donor. Kidney and liver transplants are the most common in India; heart, lung, pancreas and cornea transplants are also performed at specialised centres. Surgeons are usually general or urological/surgical specialists with an MCh, DNB or fellowship in transplantation, working with nephrologists, hepatologists and transplant coordinators.

Who may need a transplant

• End-stage kidney disease on or approaching dialysis.
• Liver cirrhosis with complications, acute liver failure or some liver cancers.
• End-stage heart or lung disease unresponsive to other treatment.

Donors and the legal framework

Organs come from living donors (usually close relatives; kidney or part of the liver) or from deceased donors after brain death, through registered hospitals and state or national networks (NOTTO). The Transplantation of Human Organs Act regulates the process, requires approval for donations and prohibits the sale of organs. Always use authorised, registered transplant centres.

Evaluation and tests

Both recipient and donor undergo thorough assessment: blood group and tissue (HLA) matching, CBC, kidney and liver function, infection screens such as hepatitis B, C and HIV, blood sugar, imaging and heart and lung checks. Donors are examined carefully and counselled about risks.

After transplant

Lifelong immunosuppressive medicines prevent rejection, with regular blood tests and follow-up. Infection prevention, a healthy lifestyle and strict medicine adherence are vital. Most kidney transplant recipients regain a much better quality of life than on dialysis.

Costs and choosing

Transplant costs vary widely by organ, hospital and complications, and schemes and charities can support eligible patients. Choose an established, registered centre with good outcomes data, a dedicated transplant ICU and strong follow-up. Compare transplant specialists and book a consultation on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.