MGM Healthcare Malar Performs Rare Liver Transplant on 2-Year-Old, Ends Dialysis
Chennai: MGM Healthcare Malar, Adyar, has successfully performed a rare live donor mono-segment liver transplant on a two-year-old child suffering from primary hyperoxaluria, a genetic disorder that led to kidney failure and dialysis dependence.
The child, weighing just nine kilograms, was admitted with severe vomiting and poor growth and was diagnosed with advanced renal failure. Investigations revealed primary hyperoxaluria, a condition in which defective liver enzymes cause excessive oxalate production, resulting in kidney stones and kidney failure.
Doctors determined that correcting the liver defect was essential before a kidney transplant could be attempted. The child’s grandmother served as the living donor for the liver transplant, which was performed successfully and without complications.
Following the surgery, the child’s kidney function has improved significantly, eliminating the need for dialysis. A kidney transplant is planned at a later stage.
The procedure was led by Dr Anil Vaidya, Chair and Director, Institute of Multi-Visceral and Abdominal Organ Transplant, MGM Healthcare Malar, along with a multidisciplinary transplant, anaesthesia, nephrology and intensive care team.
“This was a highly complex procedure given the child’s age and weight. Addressing the liver first allows the body to clear excess oxalates and improves long-term kidney outcomes,” Dr Vaidya said.
Hospital officials said the case highlights the effectiveness of a staged transplant approach in treating rare genetic metabolic disorders in children.
