Celebrating 60 years of pioneering liver care
09 June 2026 - World-leading experts from King’s College Hospital, King’s College London, and the Roger Williams Institute of Liver Studies are joining with international specialists and patients to mark the legacy of six decades of liver research and innovative care.
Taking place from 11 – 12 June 2026, 60 Years of Liver Services at King’s celebrates over half a decade since the establishment of the world-renowned Institute of Liver Studies at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
From the opening of the world’s first specialist liver intensive care ward in 1970, to the development of liver transplantation in 1989, and, in 1998, successfully introducing a programme of split liver transplantation, King’s has been at the forefront of numerous international breakthroughs in liver medicine.
During the two-day event, clinicians, scientists and patients will reflect on the impact of liver research at King’s, resulting in transformations within clinical practice, and will review the latest scientific developments which could be the next step in cutting-edge treatment.
Specialists will also have the opportunity to hear from patients affected by liver disease, sharing insights into their experiences, as well as their priorities for improving care and treatment.
Dr Deepak Joshi, Consultant Hepatologist at King’s College Hospital, said: “Whilst there is much to celebrate in the development of liver treatment, we are constantly looking for ways to deliver better care for our patients. Hearing from people with first-hand experience of the devastating impact of liver disease, as well as partner charities, will help us focus our efforts to ensure their priorities continue to be at the heart of our work.”
Martin Scampion, 65, is one King’s patient who has first-hand experience of life-saving care. He said: “I was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2024, which came as a huge shock. I started cancer treatment, but after a few months, I developed cirrhosis, as well as chronic pancreatitis. I was waitlisted for a liver transplant in early 2025, and a few weeks later I had the call to say a liver was ready for me.
“The staff at King’s were fantastic, every person I met was great at their job. It was incredible to see the team of liver coordinators, nurses, consultants, admin staff and volunteers all going above and beyond to look after me. Thanks to everyone’s support, I’m able to make the most of life again.”
Professor Philip Newsome, Director of the Roger Williams Institute of Liver Studies, said: “Liver disease is one of the biggest health challenges of our time. Meeting that challenge requires scientists and clinicians working together more closely than ever before – that is exactly what the partnership between King’s College London, King’s College Hospital and the Foundation for Liver Research is built to achieve.”
Clive Kay, Chief Executive of King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We have made great strides since the Institute of Liver Studies was founded in 1966. King’s continues to be a pioneer in liver research and care, advancing treatment options, diagnosing liver disease earlier, and helping people to live longer, healthier lives through transplantation.
“These milestones are the result of a partnership with King’s College London and the Roger Williams Institute of Liver Studies, a partnership which has and continues to grow in ambition and impact. There is much more that we will achieve together over the next 60 years.”
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