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Résultats de la Transplantation Hépatique à 1 An : Guide Complet pour les Patients

🌐 Language / ਭਾਸ਼ਾ / اللغة / Langue / ભાષા:   English العربية Français ગુજરાતી ਪੰਜਾਬੀ Résultats de la Transplantation Hépatique à 1 An : Guide Complet pour les Patients Le Dr Chetan Kalal, hépatologiste DM et médecin spécialiste de la transplantation hépatique à l’Hôpital Gleneagles de Mumbai, est reconnu comme le premier hépatologiste DM du Maharashtra. Avec 26 publications indexées sur PubMed dans les domaines de la transplantation hépatique, de l’insuffisance hépatique aiguë-sur-chronique (ACLF) et de la nutrition en soins intensifs, il accompagne les patients atteints d’une maladie hépatique avancée — y compris ceux venant du Maroc, d’Algérie, de Tunisie et d’Afrique de l’Ouest — tout au long du parcours de greffe et du suivi post-transplantation. Ses consultations sont disponibles en présentiel à Mumbai ou en téléconsultation internationale. La transplantation hépatique représente aujourd’hui l’une des interventions chirurgicales les plus complexes et les plus porteuses d’espoir en médecine moderne. Lorsqu’un patient reçoit un nouveau foie, la première année qui suit est déterminante : c’est durant cette période que le corps s’adapte, que le système immunitaire est le plus sollicité, et que les fondations d’une longue survie sont posées. Comprendre ce qui se passe au cours de cette première année — les succès, les défis et les stratégies pour y faire face — est essentiel pour les patients et leurs familles. Pour les patients francophones d’Afrique du Nord et d’Afrique de l’Ouest qui envisagent une transplantation hépatique, Mumbai s’impose comme une destination de référence mondiale. L’Inde a développé une expertise chirurgicale et hépatologique de premier rang, avec des coûts bien inférieurs à ceux de l’Europe ou des États-Unis, et une accessibilité facilitée par des liaisons aériennes directes depuis Casablanca, Tunis, Alger, Lagos ou Abidjan. Le Dr Chetan Kalal, à l’Hôpital Gleneagles de Mumbai, accompagne ces patients à chaque étape du processus. Qu’est-ce que la survie à 1 an après une transplantation hépatique ? La survie à 1 an est le principal indicateur de succès en transplantation hépatique. Selon les données des grands registres mondiaux (European Liver Transplant Registry, UNOS/OPTN), les taux de survie à 1 an pour une transplantation hépatique réalisée dans un centre expérimenté dépassent 90 % pour les receveurs adultes, quelle que soit l’indication principale. Ces résultats reflètent les progrès considérables réalisés depuis les débuts de la chirurgie de transplantation dans les années 1960–70 : meilleure sélection des donneurs et des receveurs, perfusion de préservation avancée, immunosuppression ciblée, et soins intensifs post-opératoires spécialisés. À l’Hôpital Gleneagles de Mumbai, les taux de survie à 1 an sont comparables aux standards internationaux des centres de référence. Les principales causes de complications dans la première année La première année après la greffe concentre la majorité des risques. Les causes les plus fréquentes de complication ou de perte du greffon sont : Le rejet aigu : survient typiquement dans les premières semaines ou les premiers mois. Il est traité par bolus de corticoïdes (méthylprednisolone) ou, en cas de rejet résistant, par des immunosuppresseurs plus puissants comme les anticorps anti-thymocytes (ATG). Selon les lignes directrices de l’EASL, un rejet aigu bien pris en charge n’affecte pas la survie à long terme s’il est diagnostiqué rapidement. Les infections : l’immunosuppression nécessaire pour protéger le greffon augmente le risque d’infections bactériennes (dans les 30 premiers jours), fongiques (surtout dans les 2 premiers mois) et virales — notamment le cytomégalovirus (CMV). Une prophylaxie antivirale par valganciclovir est systématique dans les centres modernes. Les complications biliaires : sténoses ou fuites de la voie biliaire surviennent dans 5 à 20 % des cas selon les séries. Elles peuvent être traitées par cholangiopancréatographie rétrograde endoscopique (CPRE) ou par radiologie interventionnelle. Les complications vasculaires : la thrombose de l’artère hépatique (TAH) est la plus redoutée, survenant dans 2 à 5 % des cas. Elle peut nécessiter une retransplantation d’urgence si elle n’est pas détectée précocement. Un suivi echo-doppler hebdomadaire est indispensable durant les premières semaines. La récidive de la maladie initiale : l’hépatite C, autrefois une cause majeure de perte du greffon, est aujourd’hui maîtrisée grâce aux antiviraux à action directe (DAA) avec des taux de guérison supérieurs à 95 %. La stéatohépatite non alcoolique (NASH/MASLD) peut récidiver si le syndrome métabolique n’est pas contrôlé. L’immunosuppression : équilibre délicat et suivi rigoureux L’immunosuppression post-transplantation repose généralement sur une trithérapie initiale : inhibiteur de calcineurine (tacrolimus ou ciclosporine), mycophénolate mofétil (MMF), et corticoïdes. Le tacrolimus est aujourd’hui le pilier central, avec des niveaux cibles stricts mesurés par dosage sanguin (taux résiduels). Les lignes directrices de l’AASLD et de l’EASL recommandent une décroissance progressive des corticoïdes, généralement stoppés dans les 3 à 6 mois après la greffe, afin de réduire le risque de diabète post-transplantation, d’hypertension, d’ostéoporose et d’infections. Le suivi des taux de tacrolimus, la surveillance de la fonction rénale et la détection précoce du rejet sont les piliers du suivi à 1 an. Il est crucial de ne jamais interrompre ou modifier son immunosuppression sans avis médical. Même une seule dose oubliée peut déclencher un épisode de rejet. Les patients qui voyagent à l’étranger après leur transplantation — notamment ceux qui retournent au Maroc, en Algérie, en Tunisie ou en Afrique de l’Ouest — doivent emporter leur carnet de suivi, une liste de leurs médicaments (nom générique et posologie), et les coordonnées de leur centre référent à Mumbai. Nutrition et style de vie dans la première année après la greffe La sarcopénie (perte de masse musculaire) est fréquente chez les patients atteints de cirrhose avancée avant la greffe. La récupération nutritionnelle post-transplantation est un déterminant majeur de la survie à long terme. Les recommandations de l’ESPEN (European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism) préconisent : Un apport protéique de 1,2 à 1,5 g/kg/jour dans la phase de récupération immédiate Une reprise précoce de la nutrition orale ou entérale dès le premier jour post-opératoire si possible La supplémentation en vitamine D, calcium et magnésium (déplétion fréquente sous tacrolimus et corticoïdes) Une activité physique progressive, supervisée par un kinésithérapeute dès la sortie des soins intensifs Le Dr Kalal est co-auteur de travaux publiés […]

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Hepatology consultation — Dr. Chetan Kalal, liver specialist, Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai

Can drinking black coffee daily reduce fatty liver risk? Hepatologist explains how much to drink and what to avoid

Can drinking black coffee daily reduce fatty liver risk? Hepatologist explains how much to drink and what to avoid Among the many daily beverages, black coffee has earned quite an impressive reputation for its robust health advantages. Many like to begin their day with a cup of black coffee. Whether it is for appetite control, weight management or simply to boost alertness, black coffee has become a part of daily routine for many.ALSO READ: Can’t function without coffee and love for it is blinding you? Here’s how to tell if you are overconsuming itBut can this everyday drink also help support your internal organs, and most importantly mitigate risks of serious conditions like fatty liver disease?Addressing this doubt, Dr Chetan Kalal, hepatologist and liver transplant physician at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, walked us through the correlation between black coffee consumption and fatty liver disease. And indeed, he acknowledged that there is indeed a positive connection as regular coffee consumption may help reduce the risk of fatty liver disease and slow its progression in people who already have the condition.“Coffee consumption has been linked to reduced risk of liver fibrosis (scarring), and a slower progression of chronic liver disease,” he added. How does coffee help? How does coffee protect liver? It actually is because of all the natural compounds present in it. The hepatologist described, “Antioxidants found in coffee like, chlorogenic acid and caffeine have anti-inflammatory properties which safeguard cells from damage, and enhance the body’s metabolic functions.”To simplify it, coffee combats inflammation and improves metabolic function, and since liver has a central role in all metabolic processes in the body, liver does benefit from the anti-oxidant nature of the coffee. Should you just depend on coffee? Now on the other hand, if coffee is indeed considered liver-friendly, does that mean one can rely on it alone? According to the hepatologist, the answer is no. To understand why, it is important to look at the root causes of fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is closely linked to a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, obesity and diabetes. These all contribute to excess fat-build up in the liver, which may further result in inflammation, scarring, and in advanced, complicated cases, liver failure. This means simply depending on coffee and hoping it will reverse fatty liver disease is not enough. While black coffee many support liver health, the doctor reminded, that it cannot replace the basics: a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight management, reduced alcohol consumption and timely medical check-ups. Coffee is a helpful addition, but you cannot make it your entire treatment plan. What type of coffee should you have and how much should you have? Dr Kalal recommended black coffee without milk. He also mentioned which type of coffee to avoid, “Coffee drinks with added syrup, whipped cream and sweetener can cause weight gain and metabolic problems that can exacerbate fatty liver disease.”Next, the ideal quantity, he believed that most healthy adults can go for 2-3 cups of black coffee daily.But some people with health conditions need to be cautious and consult a healthcare professional before increasing coffee intake. These are: people with caffeine sensitivity, pregnancy, heart or lung disease, anxiety, sleep troubles or those taking medicines. If you are trying to reduce caffeine consumption, decaffeinated coffee is a suitable option. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.  

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World Liver Day 2026

World Liver Day 2026 | “Solid Habits, Strong Liver” Your Liver Isn’t Failing Suddenly. It’s Being Damaged Daily.Most people don’t “get” liver disease. They grow into it—quietly, predictably, and often preventably. As a clinician, I rarely meet patients at the beginning of their liver problem. I meet them years later—when the disease has already progressed, when fatigue has become normal, when reports have been ignored, and when “it’s nothing serious” has quietly turned into something that is. The uncomfortable truth is this: your liver doesn’t fail overnight. It adapts—until it can’t. The Silent Epidemic We’re Ignoring Liver disease today is no longer rare, nor is it confined to alcohol use. The fastest-growing problem is fatty liver linked to lifestyle and metabolism—seen in working professionals, young adults, even people who don’t look “unhealthy.” There are no early warning signs that force you to act.No pain that makes you stop.No dramatic symptoms that demand attention. That silence is not safety. It is delay. The Daily Patterns That Add Up Most liver damage doesn’t come from one bad decision. It comes from repeated, normalized habits: Late-night eating has become routine. But your liver is not designed to process heavy meals at midnight. It is meant to repair and reset. Constant disruption leads to metabolic overload. Sugary “health” drinks—fruit juices, packaged smoothies, even protein beverages—are often perceived as safe. In reality, excess sugar is converted into fat within the liver, contributing directly to fatty liver disease. Frequent painkiller use, often taken casually for headaches or body aches, adds cumulative stress. One tablet is not the problem. Habitual use is. Crash diets and extreme fasting promise rapid weight loss but create metabolic instability. The liver does not respond well to sudden extremes. Physical inactivity, even in those who are not visibly overweight, is enough to drive fat accumulation in the liver over time. Individually, these may seem harmless. Together, they form a pattern the liver cannot indefinitely compensate for. Food Myths vs Liver Reality Public discourse around diet is filled with confusion. Ghee is not the enemy—but excess is.Fruit is not harmful—but fruit juice in large amounts is.Carbohydrates are not the problem—but imbalance is. Your liver does not follow trends. It responds to metabolic load—how much energy comes in, how it is processed, and whether it is used or stored. When intake consistently exceeds need, the excess is stored as fat in liver cells. Over time, this can trigger inflammation and scarring. The issue is rarely a single food. It is the pattern of consumption. When “Fatty Liver” Stops Being Harmless Fatty liver is often dismissed as mild or reversible—and it can be, if addressed early. But there is a point where it progresses: Fat accumulation → inflammation → fibrosis (scarring) → cirrhosis This transition is silent. Patients do not feel fibrosis developing. They do not feel early cirrhosis. By the time symptoms such as swelling, jaundice, or fluid accumulation appear, the disease is already advanced. The real risk lies not in having fatty liver. It lies in ignoring it for years. Alcohol vs Sugar: The Wrong Debate Alcohol is a well-known liver toxin. Its effects are direct and dose-dependent. Sugar, particularly in processed and liquid forms, acts differently—but no less significantly. It drives fat production within the liver and contributes to long-term metabolic injury. The modern risk is not choosing between alcohol or sugar. It is exposure to both, often combined with inactivity. One damages faster. The other affects more people over time. When Should You Seek Medical Advice? Waiting for symptoms is a mistake. Consider evaluation if you have: Persistently abnormal liver tests Fatty liver along with diabetes or excess weight Unexplained fatigue or heaviness Regular alcohol intake with abnormal reports Repeated reassurance without clear explanation “Normal” reports are not always reassuring if trends are ignored.And “mild” abnormalities are not always harmless. What Actually Helps Your Liver There is no miracle diet or quick fix. What works is consistent, sustainable correction: Regular meal timing rather than erratic eating Reducing liquid sugars and processed foods Structured physical activity, not occasional bursts Thoughtful use of medications Periodic, properly interpreted health checks These are not dramatic interventions. But they are effective. A Final Word Your liver does not demand attention. It earns it—slowly, silently, often too late. World Liver Day should not be a reminder of disease. It should be a reminder of responsibility. Because the difference between a healthy liver and a failing one is rarely fate. It is pattern.

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Hepatology consultation — Dr. Chetan Kalal, liver specialist, Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai

Dr. Chetan Kalal Honored by Dadasaheb Phalke Chitrapat Union; Recognized for Excellence in Hepatology and Liver Care

Dr. Chetan Kalal Honored by Dadasaheb Phalke Chitrapat Union; Recognized for Excellence in Hepatology and Liver Care In a rare convergence of medicine and mainstream recognition, Dr. Chetan Kalal, Consultant Hepatologist at the Institute of Liver Diseases, Mumbai, has been honored by the Dadasaheb Phalke Chitrapat Union in 2025 for his contributions to liver medicine and public health awareness. While traditionally associated with cinematic excellence, the recognition reflects the growing acknowledgment of healthcare professionals whose work significantly impacts society. Academic & Professional Background Dr. Kalal hails from the Khandesh region of Maharashtra and completed his MBBS in Dhule before moving to Mumbai in 2007 to pursue his MD at KEM Hospital. He later obtained his DM in Hepatology from the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi — becoming Maharashtra’s first DM HepatologistHe has also undergone advanced clinical exposure in the United States and the UnitedKingdom, strengthening his expertise in complex liver disorders and transplant hepatology Clinical Expertise Dr. Kalal manages the full spectrum of liver diseases, including: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) Alcohol-related liver disease Viral hepatitis (B & C) Cirrhosis and portal hypertension Liver cancer Liver transplant evaluation and pre/post-transplant care His practice emphasizes early fibrosis detection, metabolic risk correction, and evidence-based intervention. Research & International Recognition Dr. Kalal has authored over 40 peer-reviewed scientific publications in national and international medical jourals.He is a two-time recipient of the prestigious American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) Foundation Award, oe of the highest recognitions in global hepatology research.In addition to academic publications, he has actively contributed to international clinical trials aimed at advancing therapies for chronic liver disease. Liver Transplant Landscape in India India performs approximately 5,000 liver transplants annually, with nearly 90% being living donor transplants. When performed at experienced centers and at appropriate clinical timing, urvival rates approach 90–95%.Dr. Kalal emphasizes timely referral, structured evaluation, and multidisciplinary management as key determinants of transplant outcomes. Public Health Advocacy With India witnessing a sharp rise in lifestyle-driven liver disease, Dr. Kalal activelypromotes awareness regarding: Early fibrosis screening Diabetes and fatty liver linkage Alcohol-related liver injury Avoidance o Preventive vaccination for viral hepatitis unsupervised medication use He regularly engages in public education initiatives focused on prevention and early diagnosis. Recognition Beyond Medicine The Dadasaheb Phalke Chitrapat Union honor represents a symbolic acknowledgment of the role physicians play in afeguarding public health. It underscores the intersection of discipline, dedication, and societal impact beyond conventional professional boundaries. From his beginnings in Khandesh to national and international recognition Dr. Chetan Kalal’s career reflects a sustained commitment to clinical excellence, research advancement, and ethical patient care.

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Hepatology consultation — Dr. Chetan Kalal, liver specialist, Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai

Hold That Bite: Doctor Explains the Post-Workout Mistake That Could Cost You Your Life

Hold That Bite: Doctor Explains the Post-Workout Mistake That Could Cost You Your Life You finish a hard workout. You’re breathing heavily, your heart’s racing, and all you can think about is food. Totally fair. But here’s the thing most people don’t realize — eating immediately after intense exercise isn’t always a great idea. And in rare cases, doctors say it can actually be dangerous. That sounds dramatic, sure. But there’s real biology behind it. “Yes, there is a chance of choking. Immediately after a vigorous exercise, your breathing is shallow and disjointed, your diaphragm is still straining, and your swallowing reflex is not yet well synchronised. Due to the constriction of the body in terms of its attention to oxygen delivery, instead of safe swallowing, food may slip into the airway, which risks choking or aspiration, even in case of small bites,” says Dr Chetan Kalal, Consultant Hepatologist and Transplant Physician at Saifee Hospital.In 2023, a 21-year-old bodybuilder from Tamil Nadu died after choking on a bread slice he ate post-workout. He was preparing for a bodybuilding championship in the under 70 kgs category. Dr Chetan Kalal explains why there is a risk of choking if one eats immediately after a workout.The digestive system is put off temporarily. When you eat right after cessation, the stomach is requested to work without the normalisation of blood flow and nerve signals. Such a mismatch may lead to acidity, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness as the body attempts to switch between exercise and digestion,” he explains. Does the type of food I eat after exercise matter for these problems? Dr Chetan Kalal: Yes. There is a greater risk of choking and digestive discomfort immediately after exercise because of heavy, dry, sticky, or even very spicy foods. Massive bites and rapid intakes are also more dangerous. Softer food, food that the digestive system can manage, is safer, although even then one should ideally wait for the breathing system and heart rate to calm down. How long should I wait after exercising before I eat safely? Dr Chetan Kalal: With regard to sudden, intense activity such as sprinting or difficult exercise, it is best to wait 10–20 minutes. This enables your breathing, heart rate and blood flow to return to normal. When you are able to breathe normally and feel calm, then eating will be much safer. Are there any risks to my heart if I eat immediately after intense activity? Dr Chetan Kalal: The risk is not zero in the majority of healthy individuals. Strenuous work has already taken a toll on the heart, and an emergency of digestion may contribute to cardiovascular stress. In individuals with existing heart problems, such sudden change may cause palpitations, light-headedness, or fainting. The cool-down period eliminates this risk. Can drinking water right after heavy exercise also cause problems? Dr Chetan Kalal: Small portions of water are usually harmless and beneficial, but when large portions are taken immediately after intense exercise, then nausea, stomach cramps, or vomiting may occur. Other factors that may contribute to a higher risk of coughing include rapid drinking and hard breathing. Slow, steady sips are best. What’s the safest way to refuel after a sudden burst of intense activity? Dr Chetan Kalal: To begin with, take a breather, walk and get the heart rate down. Begin with little gulps of water. Eat in a calm manner after 10–20 minutes, making small bites and chewing them well. Eat light and easy-to-digest foods first and do not hurry. Refuelling is not competitive or hectic but more leisurely. Medical experts consulted This article includes expert inputs shared with TOI Health by: Dr Chetan Kalal, Consultant Hepatologist and Transplant Physician at Saifee Hospital. Inputs were used to explain why eating immediately after a heavy workout can be a big risk to your life. Do you have any questions you’d like us to ask a doctor? Let us know in the comment box below.

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Liver disease — hepatology clinic, Dr. Chetan Kalal, Mumbai

The 30-day pivot: What really happens to your liver during ‘Dry January’?

The 30-day pivot: What really happens to your liver during ‘Dry January’? The myth of the complete reset Dr. Chetan Kalal, consultant hepatologist and transplant physician at Saifee Hospital in Mumbai, offers a vital reality check: 30 days is a brilliant start, but it is not a permanent cure. “Fatty liver does not develop overnight, and it does not disappear permanently in a month. The liver possesses a form of cellular memory. For individuals dealing with obesity, diabetes, or insulin resistance, the vulnerability remains. If a person resumes heavy drinking on February 1st, the liver often re-accumulates fat faster than it did originally,” he explains.Dr Kalal also warns against the stop-start pattern, noting that while short breaks are beneficial, they do not offer long-term protection if the underlying lifestyle remains unchanged. Supporting the reset: The anti-detox diet Dr Kalal is quick to dispel the myth of liver detox foods. “The liver detoxifies on its own,” he asserts. The goal of a 30-day reset should not be to add superfoods, but to reduce the metabolic burden. To maximise the benefits of Dry January, he recommends 1. Prioritising protein: Essential for preserving muscle mass and improving insulin sensitivity. 2. Cutting refined carbs and sugar: This is more critical than cutting dietary fats. Sugar and sweetened beverages are primary drivers of liver fat. 3. Embracing healthy fats: Focus on nuts, seeds, and fish to support metabolic balance. 4. Black coffee: Surprisingly, regular black coffee has strong clinical evidence for protecting the liver against scarring and disease over time. How do you know it has worked? Because fatty liver is a silent disease, feeling better isn’t always proof of a total recovery. Dr Kalal points out that standard blood tests can be misleadingly normal even when scarring is present.For a true assessment, he recommends non-invasive tools like a FibroScan (which measures liver stiffness and fat), simple fibrosis scores derived from routine blood work, or advanced MRI-based fat measurements. These tools provide a window into the liver that a simple physical exam cannot. The final verdict A 30-day break from alcohol is a powerful physiological restart. It offers the liver a much-needed window to pivot from detoxification to repair. However, for the reset to have a lasting impact, it must be viewed as a gateway to more consistent habits rather than a temporary hall pass. As both experts agree: the liver is forgiving, but it values consistency over novelty.

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