In Vietnam, liver transplants primarily come from living donors, with a 5-year patient survival rate of 75%, which is similar to other countries worldwide. This information was shared by Associate Professor, PhD. Le Van Thanh, Director of the Institute of Digestive Surgery, Central Military Hospital 108, during a conference on advances in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery at Bach Mai Hospital.
Liver transplantation is a complex procedure in the field of gastroenterology and hepatobiliary, providing a lifeline for individuals with end-stage liver disease. While over 37,000 liver transplants were performed globally in 2022, mostly from deceased donors, living donor liver transplants are common in Asian countries like Vietnam.
In Vietnam, nine hospitals perform liver transplants since the first successful transplant in 2004 at Hospital 103. Over 500 cases have been transplanted, with Central Military Hospital 108 conducting 220 cases, making it the country’s largest liver transplant center. The main diseases requiring liver transplants are hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis.
Associate Professor Thanh emphasized the importance of living donor liver transplants due to limited brain-dead donors. This procedure offers a chance for end-stage patients to receive treatment while ensuring the donor’s safety and well-being. The hospital conducts a thorough assessment of living donors to ensure safety and effectiveness for both the donor and recipient. After donation, the liver regenerates, allowing the donor to return to a normal, healthy life.
The cost of a liver transplant in Vietnam is significantly lower than in other countries, making it a meaningful option for patients with liver cancer and chronic liver failure. The hospital aims to perform 100-150 liver transplants annually and continues to improve its techniques for successful outcomes. Living donor liver transplants have proven to be a life-saving option for many patients in Vietnam.
Central Military Hospital 108 has established itself as one of Vietnam’s leading centers for performing live organ transplants through its extensive experience and expertise in managing both deceased and living organ donors’ health concerns.
During the conference on advances in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery at Bach Mai Hospital, Associate Professor Thanh highlighted that there has been an increase in demand for live organ transplants as people become more aware of their availability.
He also emphasized that although there are some risks associated with live organ transplants compared to deceased ones
