Kochi: KV Johny, the renowned nephrologist who led India’s first kidney transplant surgery, passed away here on Saturday. He was 87.

Dr Johny, who had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments, died at around 9.05 am at VPS Lakeshore Hospital, where he had been serving as director.

A towering figure in the field of nephrology, Dr Johny played a crucial role in advancing kidney care and transplant medicine in India. In 1971, he led the team that performed the country’s first kidney transplant surgery at Christian Medical College, Vellore. He was also instrumental in setting up one of India’s largest dialysis centres at the same institution.

Over the decades, his expertise significantly contributed to strengthening VPS Lakeshore Hospital as a major centre for kidney care in the country.

Dr Johny also had an illustrious international career. He served as Vice Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Kuwait University, one of the highest honours awarded to a non-Kuwaiti person. He also served as chairman of the Kuwait National Physicians Promotion Committee and participated in senior medical delegations focused on enhancing healthcare collaboration between India and Kuwait.

He is survived by his wife, Molly Johny, head of the microbiology department at VPS Lakeshore Hospital. Their children are Vino John Varghese (USA), Anil John Mani (USA), and Asha Vikas (UK).

The funeral arrangements will be announced later.