KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION

Quick links this section: Treatment options:-  Early management  I  Home Dialysis  I  Unit based Dialysis  I  Conservative care

A transplant is a treatment for kidney failure but is not a cure. A transplant potentially offers a more active life and a longer life, free from dialysis as well as dietary restrictions.

You can have a have a transplant if you are medically suitable and stable on dialysis.

If the transplant is from a living donor, the operation can often be done before dialysis starts.

Are kidney transplants successful?
Kidney transplants are very successful. Over 94% of transplants are working one year later. The average wait for a deceased donor kidney is about 4 years.

Useful weblink: Refer to our Organ Donation Fast Facts for statistics.

Staying fit and as healthy as possible helps you remain suitable for a transplant and aids your recovery. It is a good idea to have regular health and dental checks as well as maintaining your:

• recommended fluid and dietary restrictions
• ideal body weight for your age and size - people who are overweight are at increased risk of problems during surgery
• dialysis schedule
• regular fitness or exercise plan

What is a kidney recipient evaluation?
Transplant surgery and drugs used to prevent rejection can place a strain on your body and cause problems if you are not well. Medical tests used to assess your health before a transplant include:

• a physical examination
• blood tests
• x-rays of the heart and lungs
• sometimes ultrasounds and other imaging of the heart to ensure it is healthy
• a surgical review of your arteries, veins and bladder
• periodic tests to make sure that you have not built up anti-bodies

What happens during a transplant?
Before operating, a needle or intravenous line is put in the back of your hand so medication and fluids can be given. During surgery, the new kidney is placed in position. Your kidneys are not usually removed. Sometimes if you have large polycystic kidneys, one may be removed to make space for a transplant.

The operation usually takes 2 to 3 hours with 1 to 2 hours in recovery. A cut is made in the lower part of your body, on the right or left side. The renal artery and vein of the new kidney are connected to the main artery and vein near your bladder. The new kidney is connected to your bladder so urine can flow.

A temporary tube or catheter is placed in your bladder for up to five days to drain urine into a bag. This tube comes from your urethra, the exit point for urine. It helps the medical team to check that your kidney is working well. You may also have a bag of fresh fluid connected to the catheter. The fluid helps to cleanse your bladder and prevent blood clots. Often there are one or two tubes from your wound draining away fluid. These are usually removed after one to four days.

YouTube Kidney Ed 
Reviewed playlist selection of videos on kidney transplantation, organ donation etc.