Rajavithi Hospital Sets New Milestone with First-Ever Dual Organ Transplant: Liver and Kidney

In an exceptional medical breakthrough, Rajavithi Hospital under the Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand proudly announces the successful transplantation of not just one, but two vital organs - the liver and kidney - in a single patient.  

Dr. Natthapong Wongwiwat, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, highlighted the significance of this milestone. Patients suffering from organ failure, be it the heart, lungs, or liver, often face severe complications and are at high risk of fatality. For some, the only lifeline is a transplant. Kidney transplantation, in particular, offers a higher chance of survival compared to other treatments like hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. It also significantly enhances the patient's quality of life.  

Performing a complex transplant involving more than one organ in a single patient is a monumental achievement that necessitates close collaboration among multidisciplinary teams. These teams meticulously prepare the patient before surgery, carry out intricate operations that can last for over 8-10 hours, and provide post-operative care to ensure the optimal functioning of the transplanted organs and prevent complications. This care continues throughout the patient's life in the long term.  

Dr. Jinda Rojanamethin, MD, Director of Rajavithi Hospital, shared their rich history in organ transplantation. Since 1988, Rajavithi Hospital has been at the forefront of organ transplants in Thailand. They pioneered multiple organ transplant surgeries, including the first heart and lung transplant in Thailand in 1989. Today, they continue to excel in heart, liver, and kidney transplants, with 471 patients having received these life-changing procedures.  

Dr. Vorapot Choonhaklai, Chairman of the Excellence Center for Organ Transplantation at Rajavithi Hospital, elaborated on the recent milestone. On January 5, 2024, the hospital's medical team performed a groundbreaking 2-organ transplant, involving the liver and kidney, on a 54-year-old female patient. The patient had been on the organ transplant waiting list since September 2023, and once a compatible donor was found, the surgical teams swiftly went into action. The surgery, lasting over 12 hours, saw seamless collaboration between the teams involved in organ removal, kidney transplantation, and gastrointestinal medicine.  

Rajavithi Hospital also extends an invitation to individuals interested in organ donation. Your generosity can save lives and bring immeasurable benefits to those in need. Express your willingness to donate organs by contacting the Organ Donation and Transplant Center at Rajavithi Hospital on the 9th floor of the Thosaminthrathirat Building or call +662 206 2900 ext. 10988 for more information.