A 2.9-kilogram baby received a life-saving liver transplant from his mother. After a complex recovery, the infant was discharged breathing without oxygen and taking full feeds by mouth, with the transplanted liver functioning well.
The Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology team quickly investigated the cause of the baby's condition. They suspected GALD after ruling out important infections, metabolic disorders, and genetic causes.
When intravenous immunoglobulin and two exchange transfusions did not stop the deterioration, the medical team moved swiftly to perform a liver transplantation.
The transplant was particularly challenging due to the baby's extremely small blood vessels and limited space in the abdomen, given his weight of just 2.9 kilograms.
The mother’s liver graft was carefully reduced to 62 grams to precisely match the baby’s size and physiological needs for the successful procedure.
Following the intricate surgery and recovery period, the baby was discharged from the hospital. The infant is now in good health and thriving.