Bhubaneswar, Dec 31: In a landmark achievement for Odisha’s healthcare sector, AIIMS Bhubaneswar has successfully conducted its first liver transplant on December 20, 2025, AIIMS officials said on Wednesday. The milestone underscores the institute’s growing capacity to deliver advanced, life-saving medical services to patients across Odisha and neighbouring states.

A Historic First

The transplant involved a 37-year-old recipient from Pipili, Puri district, who received a portion of the liver donated by his younger brother, aged 30. Both donor and recipient are reported to be recovering well, with the donor discharged earlier this week. The surgery, which lasted 14 hours, was carried out by a team of more than 50 specialists.

Building Capacity

The Liver Transplant Programme at AIIMS Bhubaneswar was conceptualised in 2023 under the leadership of Executive Director Prof. (Dr.) Ashutosh Biswas. The institute received its official license the same year, and the Liver Transplant OPD became operational in February 2025. A dedicated 10-bedded transplant ICU was added in November 2025, further strengthening critical care infrastructure.

Collaboration with ILBS

To ensure excellence and sustainable capacity building, AIIMS Bhubaneswar has partnered with the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, India’s premier public sector institute for liver care. The surgery was performed under the mentored guidance of Prof. Dr. Vinayendra Pamecha, Head of Liver Transplant Surgery at ILBS, alongside AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s surgical gastroenterology team led by Dr. Brahmadatta Pattanaik.

Multidisciplinary Effort

The success of the transplant was made possible by coordinated efforts across departments, including anaesthesiology, gastroenterology, radiology, blood bank services, nursing, and technical support. Executive Director Dr. Biswas congratulated the team, reiterating AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s commitment to introducing innovative procedures and expanding access to advanced healthcare.

With over 200 patients already availing services at the Liver Transplant OPD this year, AIIMS Bhubaneswar is witnessing a steadily growing waiting list, reflecting the urgent need for such specialised interventions in the region.