Treatment

Kidney Transplant

Overview

A kidney transplant is a medical procedure where a damaged or failing kidney is replaced with a healthy one from a donor. It is considered the best treatment for patients suffering from end stage kidney disease or kidney failure. Compared to dialysis kidney transplantation offers a better quality of life and long term health benefits.

Why is a Kidney Transplant Required?

A kidney transplant is required when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the body. This condition is also known as kidney failure or end stage renal disease (ESRD). It can be caused by:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney filters)

When kidneys fail dialysis or a renal transplant becomes necessary to survive. Kidney replacement surgery is a long term solution that allows patients to live without needing dialysis.

Key Advantages of Kidney Transplant

• Better quality of life: No need for regular dialysis, allowing more freedom.
• Longer life expectancy: A successful kidney implantation surgery can extend life expectancy compared to dialysis.
• Fewer dietary restrictions: Unlike dialysis patients kidney transplant recipients have fewer diet limitations.
• Increased energy levels: The new kidney improves overall health and energy.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Kidney Transplant Treatment?

Before undergoing renal transplant surgery patients should:

• Undergo medical tests to ensure they are a suitable candidate.
• Find a compatible donor (living or deceased).
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet and avoiding smoking or alcohol.
• Understand the kidney transplant requirements such as financial aspects and recovery.
• Discuss with doctors about possible risks and kidney transplant success rate.

How is Kidney Transplant Performed?

A kidney transplant surgery follows these steps:

• The patient is given anesthesia.
• The surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen.
• The kidney implant is placed in the body and connected to blood vessels and the bladder.
• The non-functioning kidneys are usually left in place unless they cause infections or complications.
• The incision is closed, and the patient is moved to recovery.

What You Can Expect?

1. Before the Procedure

• Medical tests and evaluations.
• Finding a compatible kidney donor.
• Discussions with the doctor about risks and expectations.

2. During the Procedure

• The kidney transplant procedure takes about 3-4 hours.
• The new kidney is implanted and connected to blood vessels and the bladder.
• The patient is monitored for any immediate reactions.

3. After the Procedure

• Patients stay in the hospital for about a week for observation.
• Medications (immunosuppressants) are prescribed to prevent organ rejection.
• Regular follow-ups are necessary to check kidney function.

Risk and Potential Complications

Like any surgery, a renal transplant procedure comes with risks, including:

• Organ rejection: The immune system may attack the new kidney.
• Infections: Due to immunosuppressive medications.
• Blood clots or bleeding: During or after surgery.
• Diabetes or high blood pressure: As side effects of medications.
• Kidney transplant scar: A visible mark left after surgery.

Results/Outcomes

• The kidney transplant success rate is high with over 85-90% of transplants working effectively.
• Kidney transplant recovery takes a few months but patients start feeling better within weeks.
• The maximum life after kidney transplant varies but most kidneys last 10-15 years or more with proper care.
• Many patients return to normal activities after recovery.