After a three-year hiatus, the liver transplant unit at King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital in Mumbai is set to reopen in a fortnight. This will bring relief to more than 20 patients who have been waiting for a transplant.
The transplant unit had to cease operations abruptly at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hospital also had to renew its licence, which had expired during this period.
The renewal process was completed about six months ago. It will now allow the hospital to resume transplants from both living and deceased donors.
KEM Hospital is the only hospital in the city operated by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) that has a liver transplant facility. All necessary preparations are underway. This includes the procurement of medications and equipment. According to reports, the facility is expected to be operational by January 15.
The gastrointestinal department also underwent significant renovations during the break. The department now boasts an eight-bed medical intensive care unit equipped with state-of-the-art facilities such as ventilators and dialysis machines. Dr. Akash Shukla is the head of the department. The liver transplant facility will work in conjunction with other surgical departments.
A team of seven to eight surgeons is required for a transplant. HN Reliance Hospital has pledged its support and will provide assistance free of charge.
Share
Tweet
