Is India Leading the Way in Living Donor Liver Transplantation?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India has over 200 active liver transplant centers.
- Stringent protocols ensure donor and recipient safety.
- India leads in the number of living donor liver transplants.
- High success rates comparable to developed nations.
- Commitment to compassion and ethical practices.
New Delhi, November 22 (NationPress) World-class infrastructure, exceptional surgical expertise, and strict regulations have significantly contributed to the surge in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in India, as highlighted by experts during a conference on Saturday.
The discussions took place at the Annual Conference of The Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSICON 2025), which is being held from November 20 to 23 in the capital.
Data from the Global Observatory on Organ Donation and Transplantation (GODT) and the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) indicate that India conducted approximately 5,000 liver transplants in 2024, with over 200 active liver transplant centers nationwide.
Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, President-Elect of the Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI), stated, “India’s liver transplant ecosystem represents a unique blend of science, ethics, and humanity. Each success story results from diligent protocols, a transparent donor evaluation system, and the dedication of multidisciplinary teams that treat every case with familial care. What sets India apart is not just our volume of transplants but the underlying values of compassion, accountability, and excellence that direct our efforts.”
Experts noted that India leads globally in the number of annual living donor liver transplants, establishing new benchmarks for success and safety. Each LDLT in India adheres to a rigorous, transparent, and legally monitored process, prioritizing the safety of both donors and recipients.
The entire transplantation framework is overseen by state and national regulatory organizations. Donors are typically close relatives, and each case undergoes extensive medical, psychological, and ethical evaluations before approval. This strict compliance with protocols has enabled India to achieve one of the highest success rates worldwide, often equaling or surpassing those of many developed nations.
Prof. Mohamed Rela, President of ILDLT, remarked on the exceptional surgical skill coupled with a moral and legal framework that guarantees safety for all involved.
“The Indian model of living donor liver transplantation has emerged as a global gold standard. As India continues to innovate and collaborate, we will share our experiences to improve global outcomes and ensure liver transplantation is safe and accessible for everyone,” added Rela.
LTSICON 2025 serves as an influential platform for scientific collaboration and idea exchange, bringing together over a thousand liver transplant specialists, hepatologists, and researchers from more than 20 countries.