In a heart-wrenching tragedy, 34-year-old Archana Kamath, a lecturer from Mangaluru, lost her life while attempting to save another through the selfless act of liver donation. Kamath had volunteered to donate a portion of her liver to a 69-year-old relative who was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bengaluru. However, in a cruel twist of fate, she succumbed to an infection during the process.
The liver donation procedure was scheduled to take place in a hospital in Mangaluru, where Kamath had been admitted for evaluation and surgery. Despite following all necessary medical protocols, complications arose, leading to a life-threatening infection that claimed her life. Her sudden death has left her family, friends, and colleagues in deep shock and grief.
Kamath was known as a kind-hearted and generous individual, both in her personal and professional life. As a lecturer at a Mangaluru college, she was well-regarded by her students and peers for her dedication and compassion. Her decision to donate a portion of her liver was a testament to her altruistic nature, a final act of kindness that has left a profound impact on those who knew her.
Liver donation, like most organ transplants, is a complex medical procedure that requires careful planning and precise execution. Typically, a living liver donor undergoes a thorough medical evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough to undergo surgery. During the procedure, a portion of the donor's liver is surgically removed and transplanted into the recipient. Remarkably, the liver is one of the few organs that can regenerate, allowing both the donor and recipient's livers to grow back to nearly full size within a few months.
However, organ donation is not without risks. Donors may face complications such as infections, bleeding, or issues related to anesthesia. While rare, in some cases, as tragically seen with Kamath, complications can become life-threatening.
Archana’s untimely death has deeply affected her community, which remembers her for her selflessness and humanity. Her sacrifice underscores the generosity and courage required of living donors, whose decisions can mean the difference between life and death for those in need.
Despite the inherent risks, Kamath’s decision to donate her liver remains an inspiring example of the potential to give life even in the face of danger. Her family, friends, and colleagues continue to honor her memory, recognizing her as a symbol of unwavering compassion and strength.
The hospital where the procedure was carried out has expressed their condolences to Kamath’s family and is currently reviewing the medical aspects of the case to determine how the infection occurred. Kamath’s story is a reminder of both the power and peril of organ donation, highlighting the brave individuals who step forward to help others in their time of need.
1. Medical Evaluation
The donor undergoes a thorough medical and psychological evaluation to ensure they are healthy and suitable for organ donation. This includes blood tests, imaging scans (such as CT or MRI), and an assessment of organ function.
The recipient's compatibility with the donor (blood type, tissue match) is also determined during this stage.
2. Consent and Counseling
The donor must provide informed consent after being fully briefed on the risks and benefits of the procedure. Counseling is often provided to both the donor and their family to help with the emotional aspects of the donation.
3. Pre-Surgery Preparation
Once cleared for donation, both the donor and recipient are scheduled for surgery. They are typically admitted to the hospital a day before or on the day of the surgery.
Both will undergo pre-operative tests, including physical exams and lab work, to ensure they are ready for surgery.
4. Surgical Procedure
The donor undergoes surgery where the organ (or part of it) is removed. In the case of liver donation, for example, a portion of the donor's liver is removed since the liver has the ability to regenerate.
The recipient simultaneously undergoes transplant surgery to receive the organ.
5. Post-Surgery Recovery
The donor is closely monitored in a recovery room and transferred to a hospital room once stable. Recovery times vary depending on the type of organ donated but generally range from a few days to several weeks.
Both the donor and recipient will have regular follow-ups to monitor recovery and organ function.
6. Risks and Complications
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, or complications from anesthesia. In rare cases, donors may face long-term health complications.
7. Long-Term Care
Both the donor and recipient will need to maintain regular check-ups post-surgery to ensure the organ is functioning properly and the donor’s health is stable.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)