Against this backdrop, Kings Hospital Colombo has announced the successful completion of 25 adult living-donor liver transplant surgeries, highlighting the growing availability of advanced transplant care within the country.
The achievement comes after the hospital formally launched its liver transplant programme in early 2025.
Reducing the Need for Overseas Treatment
Liver transplantation remains one of the most complex procedures in modern medicine. Patients often require highly specialised surgical teams, advanced intensive care facilities, and long-term clinical support.
Historically, limited local capacity meant many patients were referred abroad for treatment. This created financial and emotional burdens for families, while some patients faced delays in accessing care.
Kings Hospital says its programme was developed to provide a structured local alternative, allowing patients to receive treatment closer to their families and support networks.
The hospital has invested in specialised infrastructure, technology, and clinical expertise to support the programme.
Building a Comprehensive Transplant Service
The programme is led by Professor Thamara Perera FRCS (Eng), whose experience in liver surgery and transplantation has helped establish a multidisciplinary transplant team.
According to the hospital, the transplant pathway includes detailed donor and recipient evaluations, clinical planning, surgical procedures, intensive care management, and post-operative follow-up.
A dedicated intensive care unit for liver transplant patients has also been established, supported by advanced monitoring systems and life-support equipment.
The hospital noted that dialysis facilities and specialised clinical support enable the management of patients with complex medical conditions before and after transplantation.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Professor Perera highlighted the importance of early identification and referral of liver disease patients.
He noted that many patients are referred only after available medical treatment options have been exhausted, often when liver failure has already begun affecting other vital organs.
According to him, improving awareness, diagnosis, and timely referrals remains important in achieving better long-term outcomes for patients.
Growing Capacity in Advanced Healthcare
Commenting on the achievement, Kings Hospital Director Medical Services Dr. Shani De Silva said:
“With access to the newest medical technology and a team of well-experienced consultants, we are pleased to offer superior liver transplant services to Sri Lankan society, reflecting our commitment to excellence in private healthcare.”
Beyond the completion of 25 procedures, the development reflects broader efforts to strengthen advanced healthcare services and expand access to specialised treatment options within the country.
For patients requiring liver transplantation, the availability of a local programme offers an additional pathway to life-saving treatment without the challenges often associated with overseas medical care.
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Last modified: June 9, 2026
