DHA announces Dubai's first successful liver transplant

The first successful liver transplant surgery in Dubai has saved the life of a 38-year-old woman.

The four-hour procedure was conducted by a medical team at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai.

At a press conference held on Wednesday, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) announced details of the meticulous surgery that was led by Dr. Parthi Srinivasan, Chief Transplant Surgeon and Clinical Lead at King’s College Hospital London and Director of Liver Transplant Services in Dubai.

He was joined by his team from London and Dr. Rakesh Rai, a liver transplant surgeon based in Dubai from King's College Hospital.

Just ten days after undergoing the surgical procedure, the patient was discharged in excellent health.

The surgery was performed following the diagnosis of the woman's rare liver condition, autoimmune hepatitis, which involves the body's immune system attacking the liver, resulting in liver damage and eventual failure.

Six months prior to the surgery, the patient had exhibited symptoms including jaundice (yellowing of the eyes), swelling in her legs and abdomen, without any previous history of liver disease.

Despite attempts with medication, her condition continued to deteriorate, leading to liver cirrhosis and signs of liver failure.

The liver transplant was successfully conducted on November 29 using a liver from a deceased donor, with the consent of the donor's family.

Dr. Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at the DHA, pointed out a notable increase in the organ donation rate in Dubai, revealing a surge of 117.7 per cent in 2023 compared to the previous year.

The number of donors rose significantly, reaching 37 cases in 2023, compared to 17 cases in 2022.

Dr. Al Mulla also highlighted efforts to support the National Programme for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation, 'Hayat', in collaboration with the National Center for Organ and Tissue Donation.

Dr. Ali Al Obaidli, Chairman of the UAE National Transplant Committee said that the 'Hayat' programme demonstrates social solidarity and compassion by offering transplantation opportunities to individuals facing organ failure, regardless of their nationality. To date, the programme has benefited over 52 different nationalities.