MUSCAT: Transplanting organs is the final option to save a life, and not every patient with liver disease requires a liver transplant and the medical team is the best judge for determining the timing of a liver transplant, as discussed at a recent International Medical Conference held in Muscat.
The event, chaired by Dr Yahya al Azri, Head of the Department of HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) Unit at the Royal Hospital, included Dr Nooren al Balushi, Consultant of HPB Surgery at the Royal Hospital and Head of the Oman Transplant Society as Guests of Honour.
Dr Vivek Vij, Chairman and Director of HPB Liver Transplant Surgery, the guest speaker, emphasised that the best outcomes are achieved when patients are medically attended to at the right time.
During his presentation titled 'Liver Transplant is a Successful Therapy and Standard of Care for end-stage liver disease patients', he highlighted the importance of proper medical care.
Organised by Fortis Healthcare India in collaboration with the Muscat Family Physicians Group and Global Treatment Services, the International Medical Conference on 'Liver Transplant – A Comprehensive Update' took place at the Crown Plaza Hotel. Medical practitioners from various sectors, both private and government, participated in discussions and exchanged expertise throughout the evening.
Dr Vij enumerated the indications for liver transplants in adults and children, including end-stage chronic liver disease, acute liver failure, cholestatic liver diseases, and paediatric patients with various conditions.
He also shared statistics on the overall success rate of liver transplants, stating that it is one of the best organ transplants for the human body.
Despite potential complications, Dr Vij mentioned that advancements have been made in minimising post-transplant complications, improving patient quality of life significantly.
After the transplant, patients experience a drastic improvement in their quality of life, allowing them to return to their normal lifestyle within a few months. Regular follow-ups with the transplant team are essential for maintaining good health.
The conference was attended by approximately 60 practising doctors in Oman, including Hepato-Biliary Surgeons, General and GI Surgeons, Paediatric Surgeons, Paediatricians, Internists, and Family Physicians from both government and private health establishments. An interactive session followed the meeting.
Dr Sanjay Dalal, Founder of the Muscat Family Physicians' group , highlighted the importance of the liver in the human body, emphasising its connection to life.
Since 1988, the Sultanate of Oman has conducted 347 organ transplant surgeries, including 22 liver transplants and 325 kidney transplants. The National Organ Transplant Programme has conducted interviews with relatives of brain-dead patients to promote posthumous organ donation, with transplantation surgeries being performed for eligible patients on the national waiting list.
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