14-year-old survives acute liver failure, thanks to her mother's grit and timely intervention of doctors

In a moving story of hope, resilience, and a mother’s unwavering love, 14-year-old Anakendu, who was suffering from acute liver failure, was given a second chance at life—thanks to a timely liver transplant and her mother’s brave decision to be her donor.

The critical liver transplant surgery was performed at KIMSHEALTH Trivandrum after the patient was brought in an unconscious state with complaints of jaundice lasting over a week. 

Doctors evaluated her and she was diagnosed with acute liver failure. She was administered advanced liver support treatment, including therapeutic plasma exchange and dialysis (CRRT), due to elevated ammonia levels. Despite the efforts, her condition deteriorated. 

The only option left was liver transplantation and Anakendu's mother came to her rescue by volunteering to donate a portion of her liver. 

Support poured in from various sources to help the family in financial distress. The cost of the procedure was covered by financial aid from KIMSHEALTH, funding from the Department of Social Justice through the timely intervention of Dr R Bindu, Minister of Social Justice, support from departmental officials, crowdfunding, and contributions from well-wishers.

As per KIMSHEALTH Trivandrum, Dr. Shiraz Ahmad Rather, Senior Consultant and Clinical Chair, Transplant Services, and Dr. Shabeerali T.U., Chief Coordinator and Senior Consultant, Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic & Liver Transplant Surgery, led the high-risk, 10-hour liver transplant.

“This was a challenging transplant with nearly 100% mortality risk, given the patient’s acute liver failure. Yet, as a team, we took on the challenge to bring back the smile on the mother’s and the child’s face. The post-operative care was equally critical, requiring round-the-clock attention and precision from intensivists, anesthetists, nurses, and the broader multidisciplinary team,” said Dr Shiraz Ahmad Rather and Dr Shabeerali T.U.

Officials informed that following the surgery, Anakendu's condition steadily improved. Her cognitive function returned to normal, and her liver functions stabilised significantly. She was discharged after a three-week stay in the hospital and is expected to return to school within two months.

Health