What is Kidney Transplant? Eligibility, Conditions, and Procedures

Introduction

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure performed to treat renal failure. It involves replacing damaged kidney with healthy organ, either from living or deceased donor. This procedure is done when both kidneys fail to function normally. Transplanted kidneys are placed on the lower right or left side of the abdomen to ensure improved quality of life and potential lifespan extension compared to dialysis.
For more detailed information about kidney structure and function, you can visit the kidney structure and anatomy page.

Kidney transplant procedures are becoming more common as the number of patients with End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD) increases. According to the American Association of Kidney Patients, about every 10 minutes, a new patient is added to the transplant waiting list, and 86% of those waiting need a healthy kidney. 

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (NIDDK) reported that 200,000 people in the US have functioning transplanted kidneys. According to the National Kidney Foundation, the average life with a transplant from a living donor lasts about 15 to 20 years, and from a deceased donor, it lasts 8 to 12 years only.  

Understanding Kidney Transplants

Kidney transplant surgery is performed for chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal failure patients. Dialysis is an uncomfortable and continuous process, while a kidney transplant involves replacing a diseased or injured kidney with a healthy kidney from a deceased or living donor. 

What is a Living Donor transplant ?
Potential kidney donors are carefully screened to ensure the proper match, which helps prevent future complications. As the life expectancy of transplanted kidneys from a living donor is longer than that of a deceased one, A kidney from a well-matched living donor often leads to better transplant outcomes. This type of transplant is called a living donor transplant. People who donate one kidney can live healthy lives with another healthy kidney.

What is Deceased Donor Transplant?

The recipient can also take a kidney from a deceased person. Usually, one kidney from a deceased donor is used, but in rare cases, two kidneys can also be taken for specific medical reasons to transplant. Deceased donor kidneys are those who elected to donate their organs before death. This type of transplant from a deceased person is called a deceased donor transplant or cadaveric transplant. Transplanted kidneys are generally placed in the lower abdomen, but the exact position may vary based on surgical factors and individual anatomy.

What is the Difference between Dialysis and Kidney Transplant?

Dialysis is a procedure  for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. While transplants may offer better long-term outcomes, dialysis remains a viable and necessary treatment for many patients. Kidney transplant surgery is preferable because dialysis has the following limitations. 

• Incomplete waste removal (may not filter them as efficiently as a functioning kidney)
• Limited treatment frequency (hemodialysis is done 3 times a week, and peritoneal dialysis might be done daily)
• Decreased quality of life (strict diet and fluid restrictions, regular visits to dialysis centre)
• This leads to complications like infection, cardiovascular problems, and an increased risk of stroke.
• While transplant typically offers longer life expectancy, dialysis can sustain life for years in some cases, depending on individual circumstances.

Why Do People Need Kidney Transplants?

End-stage renal disease is a renal failure that occurs when the kidneys are unable to filter waste, excess fluid, or toxins from the blood. It can be caused by chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, inflammation of glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, or acute kidney injury.
This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment. Dialysis and kidney transplants are the main treatment options. Dialysis can be effective for many patients, but kidney transplants offer longer-term benefits.

Success Rates of Kidney Transplants as Compared to Dialysis

Kidney transplantation is generally considered a better option for those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) when compared to dialysis in terms of survival rates and quality of life. Dialysis is a lifetime continuous procedure, and a kidney transplant procedure requires replacement surgery. A kidney transplant treats chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease to improve health and prolong life. When compared with dialysis, kidney transplant is associated with:

• People with transplant surgery have a better quality of life due to fewer dietary restrictions, more energy, and the ability to engage in a more normal lifestyle compared to those on dialysis.
• There is a lower risk of death than dialysis. A successful kidney transplant extends a patient’s life by 10-15 years or more compared to continued dialysis.
• Limited dietary restrictions allow patients to take a more varied and balanced diet as compared to dialysis.
• Lower treatment costs because transplantation reduces the financial burden on healthcare systems due to fewer hospitalizations and complications.

Eligibility for Kidney Transplants

Who is eligible for a kidney transplant?

Anyone with renal failure can undergo a kidney procedure. There is no absolute upper age limit. Older patients may face additional assessments to ensure they are suitable for surgery. Some transplant centres have an upper age limit, while others don't. Before the surgical process, the patient will be assessed with a full medical and psychosocial evaluation to qualify for a transplant. 

To meet the criteria for a kidney transplant surgery, the patient should be healthy enough for surgery and prepared to take care of the new kidney, including taking medications every day. People of older ages and others with complications like diabetes can still have successful kidney transplant surgeries. These patients are suitable for kidney transplant procedures.

• The patients must be able to cope with major surgery
• End-stage renal disease (ESRD) or chronic kidney failure.
• People must be able to take the daily medicines needed after a kidney transplant, including immunosuppressants, to prevent organ rejection.

Common Disqualifications for Kidney Transplant Surgery

Here are some common reasons why a kidney transplant is not the right treatment for patients.

•  If someone is suffering from severe illnesses or is too frail to cope with the surgery and aftercare. 
• The patient with recent cancer, a serious infection, a heart attack, or a stroke.
• Someone who may not be able to comply with the necessary post-transplant medication regimen
• A serious health condition that makes it dangerous to have surgery.
• Recurring (returning) infection.
• A shorter life expectancy.
• Drug or alcohol abuse.

Age and Health Consideration

Kidney transplants are possible for a wide age range, from infants to adults. There is no upper age limit for kidney transplant surgery, but most recipients are between the ages of 45 and 65. Paediatric transplants involve careful consideration of the child's growth and long-term health because they require a close match from a family member. 

While there's no strict age limit for older adults, the decision depends on overall health and the benefits of the transplant to manage the risks. 

The health of an individual plays an important role in their eligibility for kidney transplants. They must have good general health and well-managed chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. This is why healthy older patients experience significant quality of life improvements with a transplant.

Physical fitness and good nutritional status are also important, as they contribute to a smoother recovery process. Mental and emotional health is another necessary factor because the patient needs to be mentally prepared for the transplant journey, which involves strict medication and regular follow-up care. 

Those with unmanaged mental health conditions are required to maintain stability before transplant surgery. Some special considerations are also given to paediatric and older adult cases to ensure the best possible outcome of kidney transplant surgery. 

The Kidney Transplant Process

The kidney transplant process involves multiple steps to match a perfect donor with the recipient. Kidneys can be taken from a living or deceased person. The team evaluating the kidney for transplant involves a transplant nephrologist, transplant nurses, a social worker, and a psychiatrist or psychologist. The transplant team will weigh all the facts from interviews, medical history, physical exams, and tests to determine the eligibility for a kidney transplant. They will also perform:

• Mental health evaluation: The donor's mental health is evaluated. This includes psychological and social issues involved in an organ transplant, such as stress, financial issues, and family support, which affect the surgery’s outcome in living or deceased donors.
• Blood tests. Blood tests are performed to find the best match with the donor, which increases the chances of acceptance of the donor's organ.
• Diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests are required to check the kidneys and overall health status. They include X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, kidney biopsy, and dental exams. Female donors are required to get a Pap test, gynaecology evaluation, and mammogram.

Pre-Surgery Preparations and Matching Donor 

If a kidney is to be received from a living donor, the donor must have a compatible blood type and be in good health. Usually, these steps will happen before the transplant:

• The transplant team will explain the whole procedure to the patient and their families and allow them to answer any query. 
• The recipient will be asked to sign a consent form allowing doctors to perform the surgery. Read the form carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
• If the recipient is already on routine dialysis before the surgery, they will get dialysis before the procedure.
• For a planned living donor transplant, the recipient is required to fast for 8 hours before the operation, usually after midnight. In the case of a deceased organ transplant donor, the recipient is recommended to start to fast after the confirmation of the availability of a matched kidney.
• The recipient will be given general anaesthesia before the procedure to help them relax.
• Based on any medical condition, the transplant team requires other specific preparations.

The Surgical Procedure

What are the stages of the transplant procedure?

A kidney transplant requires a hospital stay. The procedure of kidney transplant surgery depends on the condition and healthcare provider's practices. Generally, a transplant process involves the following process:

• Preparation: The recipient will be asked to remove their clothes and wear a hospital gown.
• IV and Catheter Insertion: An IV line will be inserted into the arm or hand. Other catheters may be placed in the neck, wrist, under the collarbone, or in the groyne area.
• Hair Removal: If there is a lot of hair at the surgical site, it will be shaved off.
• Urinary Catheter Insertion: A urinary catheter will be inserted into the bladder.
• Positioning: The patient will be asked to lie on their back on the operating table.
• Anaesthesia and Ventilation: The surgery will be done under general anaesthesia. A tube will be placed through the mouth into the lungs and connected to a ventilator to assist with breathing.
• Monitoring: The anesthesiologist or nurse anaesthetist will closely monitor the heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and blood oxygen levels during the surgery.
• Surgical Site Preparation: The surgical site will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution.
• Incision: The surgeon will make a long incision in the lower abdomen on one side and visually inspect the donor's kidney.
• Kidney Placement: Transplanted kidneys are usually placed in the lower abdomen, but the exact location can vary.
• Artery and Vein Connection: The renal artery and vein of the donor kidney will be sewn to the external iliac artery and vein.
• Blood Flow Check: After attaching the artery and vein, the blood flow will be observed for any bleeding at the suture lines.
• Ureter Connection: The donor ureter will be connected to the bladder.
• Closing the Incision: The incision will be closed with stitches or surgical staples.
• Drain Insertion: A drain may be placed in the incision site to reduce swelling.
• Bandaging: A sterile bandage or dressing will be applied.

The Role of Immunosuppressants

To allow the transplanted kidney to survive in the body, the recipient will be on medications for the rest of their life to prevent rejection. The medicine enables the transplanted kidney to function properly. The response to medication varies from person to person depending on their medical condition and severity of renal disease.

New anti rejection drugs are continually being developed and approved. The healthcare provider is responsible for customising medication according to the requirements.

Initially, many anti rejection medications are typically used. The dosages of these medications may vary frequently depending on how the recipient responds. Immunosuppressants are the most common drugs used for anti rejection purposes. 

Immunosuppressants are medicines that help prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ. When a person gets a new organ, the immune system might see it as something foreign and try to attack it. While immunosuppressants do weaken the immune system, they also make patients more vulnerable to infections and require careful balancing.

These medications are very important because they help the transplanted organ stay healthy and function well. However, they also increase the risk of infections, so they require careful monitoring and use. Thus, a balance must be maintained between preventing rejection and making the organ very susceptible to infection.

Anti Rejection medications alter the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. It would help if you struck a balance between increasing your susceptibility to infection and preventing rejection. They are more prone to respiratory viruses, herpes, and oral yeast infections (thrush). For the first few months after surgery, it is recommended that they take precautions and stay away from crowds and anyone who has an infection.

Anti Rejection medicines

These are some anti rejection medicines that help to stop the recipient’s body from attacking or rejecting the new kidney. Anti Rejection medications, such as calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus), mTOR inhibitors, antiproliferative agents, and steroids are commonly used.

These drugs suppress the immune system and cause side effects, including an increased chance of infection or stomach, and potential long-term issues.  These are generally manageable with proper medical care. These medications are necessary to maintain functions of transplanted kidney and ensure long-term success.

Post-Transplant Life

Recovery Period in the Hospital After Transplant

The recovery period starts right after the successful transplant surgery. The recovery period in the hospital after a kidney transplant usually lasts 5 to 10 days. This duration may vary depending on the patient's overall health, how well the new kidney starts functioning, and whether the donor is living or deceased.

When the recipient becomes conscious, healthcare providers will observe close monitoring by checking blood pressure, pulse rate, and breathing continuously. The recovery period in the hospital after the transplant includes:

• After the initial recovery period, the focus shifts to monitoring kidney function, including urine output. A transplanted kidney taken by a living donor begins producing urine and performing normal functions. The production of urine from a deceased transplanted kidney may take longer. It is recommended that the recipient continue dialysis until urine output is normal.
• The amount of urine excreted is measured to observe the proper functioning of the new kidney. A catheter is placed in the bladder to drain the urine.
• The recipient will be on intravenous fluid (IV) until he is able to take food on their own. 
• Under observation, healthcare providers will ensure that the recipient is getting the right dose and combination of medications for the best results. 
• Blood tests will be done regularly to check the functioning of the new kidney and other important organs, such as the liver and lungs.
• The recipient will start with liquids and gradually move to solid foods as the body allows. Fluid intake might be limited until the new kidney is fully working.
• Usually, by the day after surgery, the recipient will be encouraged to get out of bed and move around several times a day. 
• A doctor recommends an analgesic for any pain. Avoid aspirin or other pain relievers that can cause bleeding, and only take the medicines recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Before leaving the hospital, the healthcare team, including nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, and physical therapists, will properly guide patients in taking care and taking steps in emergency situations, especially surgical wounds. 
• The recipient will be ready to go home when the condition becomes stable and the new kidney is working well with stable vital signs.
• Patients are advised to avoid high-impact activities and heavy lifting to prevent stress on the new kidney.

When the condition stabilises, the recipient will be sent home, but frequent follow-ups and hospital visits are necessary.

Long-term Care and Lifestyle Changes

After a kidney transplant, it is important to monitor and observe the signs of kidney rejection.  The symptoms of rejection are similar to other medical conditions. Long-term care and lifestyle changes are essential to ensure the success of a new kidney and maintain overall health. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Post-transplant care is necessary to keep the surgical area of incision clean and dry. Healthcare providers recommend specific bathing instructions, such as not submerging the incision in water until it completely heals. The recipient is advised to avoid this because it increases the risk of infection. The stitches or surgical staples will be removed during a follow-up hospital visit.
• The recipient is also advised to avoid driving until the incision is completely healed.
• Do not perform any activity that causes pressure on new kidneys.
• Monitor blood pressure and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Strictly observe weight because increases in weight can be associated with improper fluid filtering by new kidneys. In this case, the recipient is strictly advised to visit a doctor.
• Avoid any activity or position that puts pressure on the new kidney. Other activity restrictions may apply.
• Consult healthcare in case of fever because fever or tenderness may be a sign of rejection or infection.
• A sudden increase in blood creatinine level or blood pressure may also refer to rejection.
• An increase in pain around the incision site can also be a sign of rejection or infection.
• Avoid going to crowded places to prevent further infection due to suppressed immunity.
• Also, seek immediate help from a doctor if the recipient experiences other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or bleeding from the incision site.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Balanced Diet: Follow a diet that supports kidney health, with a focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low salt. Avoid foods high in cholesterol and sugar to prevent complications.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular health, and support overall well-being. Start with light activities and gradually increase intensity according to body requirements.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol can lead to kidney damage and other health issues, so it is essential to quit these habits for long-term health.
  

Kidney Transplant Longevity and Success Rates

Success Rate of Transplant from Living Donor:

According to a 2020 OPTN/SRTR Annual Report, 83.9% of people over 65 who received a kidney from a living donor were still alive 5 years after their transplant. For younger people aged 18 to 35, the survival rate is even higher, at 97.8%. However, people who had kidney failure because of diabetes had the lowest 5-year survival rate, at 88.3%, compared to those with other causes of kidney failure.

The 5-year survival rates are better for people who receive a kidney from a living donor compared to those who get a kidney from a deceased person, even if they are the same age. People who receive a living donor kidney usually spend less time on dialysis.

The 5-year survival rate for transplanted kidneys is a bit lower than the survival rate for people who receive them. Around 81.6% of transplanted kidneys aged 65 and 90.9% of people aged 35 to 49 survive for at least 5 years.

Success Rate of Transplant from Deceased Donor:

Success rates for deceased donor kidney transplantation (DDKT) are high but lower than those for living donor kidney transplants (LDKT). Since there are more deceased donors available, more DDKTs are performed each year. According to the OPTN/SRTR 2020 report, roughly four times more DDKTs than LDKTs were performed in 2020.

For kidney transplants from deceased donors (DDKT), the 5- year survival rates are:

• 74.3% of people over 65
• 95.8% for people ages 18 to 34

People with kidney failure from diabetes have a lower 5-year survival rate of 81.1%.

Recipient Survival Rate Graft Survival rate of Kidney Transplant

The national survival rate for 2022 includes the recipient survival rate and the graft survival rate. The recipient survival rate refers to people who have received a transplant, and the graft survival rate refers to the survival rate of the implanted kidney. According to this, the table below highlights the percentage of kidney transplants from deceased donors and living donors. 

Table 01: Recipient and Graft Survival Rate 2022

Kidney transplants are very successful in extending the lives of eligible people. According to Medical News Today, a study conducted in 2017 included 452 kidney transplant recipients with a median age of 65. It showed that the 1-year recipient survival rate is 98.7% and the 1-year graft survival rate is 94.4%. The increasing age is a main risk factor in lowering the survival rates of both the recipient and the graft. The survival rates for the recipients and grafts were as follows: 

Table 02: Recipient and Graft Survival Rate 2017

From the above data, it is concluded that kidneys donated by a living person generally last longer than kidneys donated by a deceased(cadaver) person. On average, a person with transplanted kidneys lasts approximately 10 years.

How long does a kidney transplant last?

According to the National Kidney Foundation, the average life with a transplant from a living donor lasts about 15 to 20 years, and from a deceased donor, it lasts 8 to 12 years only.  

Factors Influencing Transplant Longevity

Multiple factors affect the success rate of a kidney transplant.

Age: Age is an essential factor that affects the chances of transplant success. It includes the ages of the donor and the recipient. Kidneys from younger donors tend to last longer than those from older donors.

Does age affect kidney transplant eligibility?

According to the National Institute of Library, research conducted in 2016 highlighted that the age of the recipient is the second leading risk factor in predicting the outcomes of kidney transplant success.

As people get older, the expected time for transplanted kidneys will actually increase. This might seem surprising, but it’s likely because younger people have stronger immune systems, which can sometimes cause their bodies to reject the new kidney more often.

According to the OPTN/SRTR 2020 report, researchers found that 9.1% of kidney transplant patients aged 18 to 34 experienced organ rejection, while 5.9% of recipients were over the age of 65.

In a 2016 study, researchers discovered that the age of the kidney donor was the fourth most important risk factor. As the donor's age increased, the risk of the kidney being rejected also became higher.

Donor Type and Kidney Quality: Kidneys from living donors generally last longer than those from deceased donors.

Recipient’s Overall Health: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and overall immune system strength affect how long a transplanted kidney functions.

Immunosuppressant Medication: Taking anti-rejection drugs as prescribed helps prevent the immune system from attacking the new kidney to improve its longevity.

Rejection Episodes: If the body shows signs of rejecting the kidney, it reduces the lifespan.

Infections: Post-transplant infections harm the kidney and shorten its life.

Lifestyle Choices: Healthy habits like eating a balanced diet, exercising, and avoiding smoking or alcohol extend the life of a transplanted kidney.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

How Much Does a Kidney Transplant Cost?

The breakdown of kidney transplant surgery costs includes:

• Surgery: The main cost is the surgery itself, which includes fees for the surgeon, anaesthesia, and the operating room.
• Hospital Stay: Staying in the hospital after surgery can be expensive, especially if complications require extra care.
• Medications: The recipient needs to take immunosuppressants for life to keep the body safe from rejecting the new organ, and they are quite costly.
• Pre- and Post-Operative Care: This covers all the costs of tests, follow-up visits, and potential rehabilitation, which add to the overall cost.

Costs in Different Countries (Australia, USA, India, Philippines)

The cost of kidney transplant surgery in different countries depends on differences in healthcare systems, hospital and surgeon fees, medical supplies and medications, and pre-and post-surgery care.

1. USA:
   The cost of a kidney transplant in the USA usually ranges from $300,000 to $500,000, which includes surgery, hospital stay, and the first year of medications. Advanced medical facilities and the overall healthcare system contribute to the high cost.
2. Australia:
   The cost is generally lower in Australia than in the USA, averaging around AUD 100,000 to AUD 150,000. This includes surgery, hospital stay, and follow-up care. Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare, covers most of these costs for eligible patients.
3. India:
   In India, a kidney transplant is significantly more affordable, with costs ranging from INR 400,000 to INR 700,000 (approximately USD 5,000 to USD 10,000). This includes surgery and a short hospital stay. The lower cost is due to reduced medical fees and the availability of government and charity support.
4. Philippines:
   In the Philippines, the cost of a kidney transplant is around PHP 1,000,000 to PHP 2,000,000 (approximately USD 20,000 to USD 40,000), including surgery and hospitalisation. Although costs are lower than in Western countries, patients might still have to pay a lot of money out of their own pockets.
   

Comparative Analysis: Kidney transplants are the most expensive in the USA because of high healthcare costs. Australia has moderate costs due to strong public healthcare support. India and the Philippines are more affordable, which attracts people from other countries for treatment, but the quality and availability of care vary.

Special Considerations of Kidney Transplant:

Multiple Transplants and Their Viability:

• Possibility and Success Rates: Multiple kidney transplants are possible, especially if the first graft fails. However, each subsequent transplant tends to be more complex due to the body’s immune response. Success rates decrease with each additional transplant, but advancements in immunosuppressive therapies have improved outcomes.

Living Donor vs. Deceased Donor Transplants:

• Living Donor: Living donors offer higher success rates and faster transplantation since the organ is often healthier and the timing is planned. The major con is the ethical consideration and risk to the donor.
• Deceased Donor: This option is more common but comes with longer wait times and a higher risk of delayed graft function. However, it eliminates risks to a living person and is a critical option for those without a suitable living donor.

Impact on Life Expectancy and Quality of Life:

• Life Expectancy: A kidney transplant significantly improves life expectancy compared to remaining on dialysis, often doubling or tripling survival rates.
• Quality of Life: Transplants typically offer a much better quality of life. They free patients from the time-consuming and physically draining process of dialysis, allowing them to perform normal activities and improve their overall health.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Post-Transplant Patients

Dietary Recommendations

After the kidney transplant, the recipient needs to adjust their diet to keep the new kidney healthy and functioning well. Fewer dietary restrictions are required if they were receiving dialysis therapy before the transplant, but they still need to make some diet changes. 

It is important to follow the specific dietary guidelines provided by the healthcare team, as individual needs vary based on overall health and the type of medications used. Here are some tips for living a healthy life with transplanted kidneys. 

• Do not smoke
• Regular walk and exercise
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol intake
• Reduce stress
• Consume a low-salt and low-fat diet
• Take sufficient fibre intake

Recommended Dietary Intake for Post-Transplant Patients

These foods are allowed for kidney transplant patients, which is beneficial, but some foods are restricted, as mentioned in the table below.

Table 03: Beneficial and restricted foods for post-transplant patient

Physical Activity and Weight Management

Once the recipient has recovered from the transplant surgery, exercise and physical activity should be a regular part of their life to improve their overall physical and mental health.

After a kidney transplant, regular exercise helps boost energy levels and increase strength. It also helps maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and prevent common transplant complications such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

It is recommended that post-transplant patients add walking to their daily lives. All should gradually add physical activity to their daily routine with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week.

Physical activity also includes walking, bicycling, low-impact strength training, swimming, and other activities that contribute to a healthy, active lifestyle after transplant. It is important to follow the guidelines of the healthcare team regarding physical activity to live a healthy lifestyle.

Potential Risks and Complications

Common Risks Associated with Kidney Transplants

Renal transplantation can treat progressive kidney disease and kidney failure, but it is not a permanent cure. Certain types of kidney disease can recur after post-transplantation.

There are risks related to the surgery and some chances of rejection of the donated kidney in the recipient’s body. Other complications are related to side effects linked with the use of anti-rejection drugs (immunosuppressants) that ensure the body does not reject the donated kidney.

So, it is an important decision to go for a kidney transplant with the knowledge of the risks and benefits related to the surgical process. Always consult with family and healthcare physicians about kidney transplant complications and associated risks.

Complications of the procedure

Kidney transplant surgery carries a risk of multiple complications, including:

• Blood clot formation and bleeding
• Leaking or blockage of the bladder (ureter)
• Infection
• Chances of failure or rejection of the donated kidney
• An kidney infection or cancer that can be passed on from the donated kidney
• Death, heart attack and stroke

Managing Rejection Episodes

Symptoms of Kidney Rejection 

After successful transplant surgery, there are chances of rejecting the kidney from the body's immune system. These are the symptoms of rejection.

• More prone to infections (fever, chills, sore throat).
•  Reduced urine, swelling and high blood pressure.
• Yellowing skin, dark urine, abdominal pain.
• Increased sugar level, thirst, frequent urination and fatigue.
• Digestive problems like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain.
• Bone weakness leads to Joint pain and fractures.
• Tremors like shaking hands and muscle twitching.
• Anxiety, depression, insomnia.
• Hair growth or loss.
• Increased appetite and noticeable weight changes.

Side Effects of Taking Anti Rejection Medicines

After a kidney transplant, anti-rejection medications are prescribed to help prevent the body from rejecting the donor's kidney. These medications show various side effects, including:

• Bone thinning and bone damage
• Diabetes
• Excessive hair growth or hair loss
• Increased blood pressure and cholesterol

Other side effects also include:

• Increased risk of cancer
• Infection
• Puffiness
• Weight gain
• Acne

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much time is required to recover after kidney transplant surgery? 

The time of recovery depends on each individual. Usually, the recovery period of a young, healthy recipient after a kidney transplant is 2-3 months. After three or four months, the kidney functions become more stable, and the recipient does not require frequent follow-up visits. The risk of transplant rejection usually decreases in the first six months, and also the prescribed medicines will decrease.

If the transplant fails, can I get a kidney transplantation again?

Yes. If the transplant fails, the recipient can have the kidney transplanted again. You will have to get a kidney from a living donor or rejoin the national list for transplant patients to get a kidney from a deceased person.

Is there an upper age limit for being eligible for the reception of a kidney transplant?

There is no specific age policy for kidney transplant surgery. It can be performed at any age, depending on the health and complications or renal failure of the recipient.

How many years does a transplanted kidney last?

The age of kidney transplants depends on the age and type of donor. According to the National Kidney Foundation, the average life with a transplant from a living donor lasts about 15 to 20 years, and from a deceased donor, it lasts 8 to 12 years only.  

How long does a kidney transplant surgery take?

Kidney transplant surgery normally lasts between 2 to 4 hours.

Can anyone donate a kidney for a transplant?

No, not everyone can donate a kidney. Potential donors must be in good overall health, have two healthy kidneys, and meet specific age, medical, and lifestyle criteria. Blood type compatibility and tissue matching with the recipient are also essential. Additionally, donations must be voluntary and informed.

Is it possible to live a normal life after a kidney transplant?

Yes, it is possible to live a normal life after a kidney transplant. Many people return to their usual activities and enjoy a good quality of life. However, ongoing medical care, including regular check-ups and medication, is necessary to ensure the health of the transplanted kidney and overall well-being.

What are the risks associated with kidney transplant surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, kidney transplants involve risks. These include infection, bleeding, and other complications from anaesthesia. Organ rejection is another concern even when immunosuppressive drugs are used. The prolonged administration of immunosuppressive agents increases the chances of developing diseases like cancer and other illnesses. 

Conclusion

A kidney transplant is a vital solution for those suffering from end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It provides a chance to regain normal function and improve healthier well-being. Kidney transplants have high rates of success and are the preferred treatment for eligible people. There are many risks and complications linked with kidney transplants, but successful surgery leads to a rewarding, life-changing opportunity to live healthier and longer lives. 

It’s important to remember that recovery is possible with the right medical support, and many people live normal, healthy lives after their transplants. If someone is considering a kidney transplant option for renal failure, consult a healthcare renal physician and explore the resources available for further information and support.