World Organ Donation Day is celebrated globally on 13 August every year and the aim of this day is to raise awareness about organ donation and encourage people to consider becoming donors. The theme of World Organ Donation Day in 2024 is “Be the reason for someone’s smile today!” Organ donation is an important and noble cause, and it can save a life.
It is important to note that some organ donations can be done even when you are alive. You can donate a kidney, a piece of liver and other organs and tissues while you are alive. However, to be an organ donor, you need to take care of your health and follow a healthy lifestyle. Dr Rajiv Lochan, Senior Consultant, Liver Transplant and Robotic Surgery, Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, shares tips and guidelines for living liver organ donors of the future.
Who is a living liver organ donor?
A living liver donor is a person who donates part of their liver to a person with liver failure who needs a transplant (the recipient). “The decision to become a living liver donor is not only important for you, the donor, but also for your loved one, the recipient. This noble act can be considered one of the most selfless gifts you can give. In fact, your recipient’s life depends on your donation,” says Dr. Lochan.
World Organ Donation Day: Who can be a living liver donor?
“In India, the law allows close or distant relatives of a patient who needs a liver transplant to donate a portion of their liver. Typically, donors are between 18 and 50 years of age, although in certain situations, the upper age limit may be more flexible. Persons under 18 years of age cannot donate their organs,” says Dr Rajiv Lochan.
The doctor reminds us that donors must be in good physical and mental health and that their blood type must be compatible with that of the recipient. Although incompatible transplants are possible, they are less common and are indicated only in certain situations. “People with chronic diseases such as diabetes or other liver conditions are not suitable for donation. However, minor diseases, such as well-controlled hypertension (with a single pill) and hypothyroidism, are not necessarily a contraindication and people with such conditions can donate part of their liver,” says Dr. Lochan.
Read also: World Organ Donation Day: Are you too old or sick to donate organs? Expert debunks 10 common myths
Pre-evaluation process for a living liver donation
“In our Unit, all living liver donors undergo an interview with our transplant coordinator, followed by a psychosocial assessment. They are then assessed by the liver transplant team, primarily surgeons and hepatologists,” explains Dr. Lochan.
Dr Lochan adds that donors must also complete a detailed questionnaire about their health to identify any unknown aspects of their health and lifestyle that may increase risk. These factors are critical as donor safety is paramount in this type of project. “Following these assessments, donors undergo a thorough medical examination and consultation with the transplant team. This includes a five-stage assessment: blood tests, a CT scan to assess liver anatomy, liver volume and quality, and subsequently a cardiopulmonary assessment. Once the donor is matched to the recipient, the risks and benefits are carefully discussed in an attempt to achieve a ‘tripartite balance’ where donor safety is paramount, the recipient’s needs are met, and an optimal outcome for the recipient is achieved,” says Dr Lochan.
The primary concern is donor safety, as the operation provides no direct health benefit other than the satisfaction of helping the recipient achieve good health and a better quality of life for several decades, says the doctor. He adds that the goal (and challenge) for the treating team is to ensure that, in pursuit of the recipient’s need, “the donor’s safety and autonomy (the ability to withdraw consent to donation at any time and that there is no undue pressure, i.e. that donation is entirely voluntary) are not compromised, and that the recipient’s outcome is not harmed.”
Another important step is to discuss the decision to donate with an independent advisor, who may be a close family member, friend, or physician who acts as an advocate for the donor, independent of the transplant team. “This is intended to address the emotional and psychological aspects of donation, including possible outcomes for the recipient,” says Dr. Lochan.
World Organ Donation Day 2024: Lifestyle recommendations for potential living liver donors
As for legal and ethical considerations, hospital coordinators, surgeons and hepatologists will explain and guide you through the informed consent process and the rules of the Human Organ Transplantation Act, which regulates living liver donation in India. To prepare for donation, there are three specific aspects to focus on. Dr. Lochan lists the following points:
Healthy diet: In the weeks leading up to the transplant, it is necessary to follow a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. It is very important to avoid carbohydrates and sugar, which can cause fat to build up in the liver. A high-protein diet with a moderate or low fat content and a minimum of carbohydrates is recommended. Scientific evidence supports these types of dietary recommendations for optimal health before donation.
Regular exercise: Maintain a regular exercise routine to improve your fitness and maintain or build stamina and resilience. Walking for 20 to 30 minutes, 4 to 5 times a week, is beneficial. Moderate cardiovascular exercise 3 to 4 times a week is also recommended, in consultation with your medical team.
Avoid alcohol and tobacco: It is extremely important to avoid alcohol and tobacco use in the weeks or months prior to donation and to continue to do so for many weeks or months after the operation.
It’s also important to address financial and practical issues, such as insurance and time off work arrangements. Experts advise that it’s crucial to build a strong support network with family and friends. “Connect with others who have been through the donation process to gain valuable insight into the hospital stay and recovery. Your medical team will be able to help you with this. Don’t hesitate to ask your medical team questions. Being well informed and educated about the entire process is key to navigating the transplant journey,” says Dr. Lochan.
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