The liver transplant unit at King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital in Mumbai is set to reopen in a fortnight after a three-year hiatus, bringing relief to over 20 patients awaiting a transplant. The unit had temporarily closed during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and had to renew its license, which expired during this period. With the renewal process completed six months ago, the hospital will now be able to conduct transplants from both living and deceased donors. KEM Hospital is the only hospital in Mumbai operated by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) with a liver transplant facility, and preparations are underway for its estimated operational date of January 15.
During the hiatus, the gastrointestinal department at KEM Hospital underwent significant renovations and now features an eight-bed medical intensive care unit equipped with advanced facilities like ventilators and dialysis machines. Dr. Akash Shukla heads the department, and the liver transplant facility will collaborate with other surgical departments. The demanding procedure requires a team of seven to eight surgeons, and HN Reliance Hospital has pledged to provide free assistance to support the transplant unit. As the reopening draws near, patients can anticipate the resumption of vital services and improved facilities at KEM Hospital, addressing an urgent need in Mumbai’s healthcare system.
