In a remarkable milestone for public healthcare in Chhattisgarh, AIIMS Raipur has successfully performed its first Swap Kidney Transplant—an intricate and life-saving procedure that marks a significant leap in the institute’s organ transplant program. With this achievement, AIIMS Raipur becomes not only the first among the newer AIIMS institutions to carry out such a transplant but also the first government hospital in the state to do so, signaling a new era in advanced renal care for patients across the region.
Swap Kidney Transplantation, also known as Kidney Paired Donation, allows patients with willing but incompatible donors to exchange organs with other such pairs, thereby overcoming barriers such as blood group mismatch or the presence of antibodies. This innovative approach can increase the number of transplants by up to 15%, giving hope to many who would otherwise be left waiting. The procedure carried out at AIIMS Raipur involved two men suffering from end-stage renal disease, both on dialysis for three years. Their wives, despite being willing donors, faced compatibility issues. However, by carefully matching and exchanging donors, both recipients received compatible kidneys—and a renewed chance at life. The surgeries took place on March 15, 2025, and all four individuals are now recovering well under dedicated medical supervision.
This feat reflects not just a medical achievement, but a deeply human story of perseverance, love, and the quiet strength of families willing to make extraordinary sacrifices for one another. It also showcases AIIMS Raipur’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge medical interventions within reach of the common citizen.
The success of the transplant was made possible by a dedicated team of professionals, including transplant physicians, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff. Their coordinated efforts exemplify the strength of teamwork and the spirit of public service. The transplant team was led by Dr. Vinay Rathore, along with Dr. Amit R. Sharma, Dr. Deepak Biswal, and Dr. Satyadeo Sharma, supported by an able team of anesthesiologists and transplant coordinators.
This achievement builds on a strong foundation laid by AIIMS Raipur in organ transplantation. It was the first among newer AIIMS to initiate Deceased Donor Organ Donation and Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation, as well as the first in the state to undertake Deceased Donor Paediatric Kidney Transplants. Over the years, AIIMS Raipur has performed 54 kidney transplants, with a commendable graft survival rate of 95% and patient survival rate of 97%—figures that speak volumes about its clinical excellence and commitment to compassionate, high-quality care.
Under the guidance of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, AIIMS Raipur continues to emerge as a beacon of hope for patients in need of organ transplants, reinforcing the belief that public institutions, when empowered and committed, can deliver miracles.