01-10-2024 11:03 AM

What is Kidney Transplant? Eligibility, Conditions, and Procedures

Introduction

A kidney transplant is a surgical process to replace the failed kidney with a healthy one. When one of two kidneys fails, a healthy kidney transplant becomes crucial.

Generally, doctors transplant the healthy kidney to the right or left side of the lower abdomen. The purpose is to enhance and improve the quality of life as compared to dialysis.

For more detailed information about kidney structure and function, you can visit the kidney structure and anatomy page.

Kidney transplant is becoming more common for end-stage renal disease cases.

The American Association of Kidney Patients states that a new patient is added to the transplant list every 10 minutes. Moreover, among the waiting list, 86% require a healthy kidney.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (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.

Understanding Kidney Transplants

When kidneys fail, only two options remain. One is dialysis, and the other is transplant. Dialysis is an uncomfortable and continuous process.

Kidney transplant surgery is crucial for chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal failure. It involves replacing a diseased or injured kidney with a healthy kidney.

The patient can take a kidney from both deceased and living donors.

What is a Living Donor transplant ?

A living donor transplant means that a healthy and living person donates a kidney.

Mostly, it is a voluntary action by a person who could be a relative or an outsider. However, a match is crucial for a successful surgery.

For a proper match, doctors will do a careful screening of the patient. A proper checkup is crucial to prevent any complications.

People who donate one kidney also live healthy lives.

What is Deceased Donor Transplant?

Deceased donors are those who voluntarily donate their organs before death. The recipient can also take a kidney from a deceased person.

Usually, healthcare professionals use one kidney of a deceased donor. However, two kidneys can also be taken for specific medical reasons for transplant. But it happens rarely.

This type is called a deceased donor transplant or cadaveric transplant.

What is the Difference between Dialysis and Kidney Transplant?

Dialysis is a procedure for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. However, a transplant means replacing the failed kidney with a healthy one.

Transplant provides better long-term outcomes than dialysis. But, in some cases, dialysis is a necessary treatment. 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 (haemodialysis 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 infection, cardiovascular problems, and an increased risk of stroke.
Transplants can provide long-term results. But dialysis sustains life for years in some cases, depending on individual circumstances.

Why Do People Need Kidney Transplants?

People needs transplant when one or both kidney fails. End-stage renal disease occurs when the kidneys fail to filter waste, excess fluid, or toxins from the blood.

It may happen due to:

Chronic kidney disease
Diabetes
Hypertension
Inflammation in the kidney (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 a better option for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. It is preferable to dialysis in terms of survival rates and quality of life.

Kidney dialysis is a continuous lifetime procedure. However, the kidney transplant procedure requires replacement surgery. It treats chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. When compared with dialysis, the kidney transplant is associated with:

People with transplant surgery have a better quality of life. It is due to fewer dietary restrictions, more energy, and the ability to engage in a normal lifestyle.
There is a lower risk of death than with dialysis. A successful kidney transplant extends a patient’s life by 10–15 years.
Limited dietary restrictions allow patients to have a more varied and balanced diet.
It lowers treatment costs. Transplantation reduces the financial burden on healthcare systems. As the requirement for frequent hospitalisation reduces.

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. A full assessment with a full medical and psychosocial evaluation is crucial to qualify for a transplant.

The patient should be healthy and prepared for a new kidney transplant. People of older ages with diabetes can 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. These medicines include 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 has 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.

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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. However, most recipients are between the ages of 45 and 65.

Paediatric transplants involve careful consideration of the child's growth and long-term health. It is important because they require a close match from a family member.

There's no strict age limit for older adults. However, the decision depends on overall health and the benefits of the transplant for risk management.

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. These chronic conditions are diabetes or hypertension. Healthy older patients often experience significant quality of life improvements with a transplant.

Physical fitness and good nutritional status are also important. Both these factors contribute to a smoother recovery process.

Mental and emotional health is another necessary factor. The patient needs to be mentally prepared for the transplant journey. Because it involves strict medication and regular follow-up care.

Those with unmanaged mental health conditions need to maintain stability before transplant surgery.

Some special considerations are also given to paediatric and older adult cases. So that doctors can ensure the best possible outcome of kidney transplant surgery.

The Kidney Transplant Process

The kidney transplant process involves multiple steps. It starts 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 includes

Transplant nephrologist
Transplant nurses
A social worker
A psychiatrist or psychologist

The transplant team will weigh all the facts. These include interviews, medical history, physical exams, and tests to determine eligibility for a kidney transplant. They will also perform:

Mental Health Evaluation

Doctors will evaluate the donor's mental health. These issues include psychological and social issues that patients face during the transplant. These factors are stress, financial issues, and family support. All these factors can affect the surgery’s outcome in living or deceased donors.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are necessary to find the best match with the donor. This test helps increase the chances of acceptance of the donor's organ.

Diagnostic tests.

Diagnostic tests are crucial to check the kidneys and overall health status. They include X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, kidney biopsies, and dental exams. Female donors are required to get a Pap test, gynaecological evaluation, and mammogram.

Pre-Surgery Preparations and Matching Donor

A living 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. They also allow them to ask any questions.
The recipient needs to sign a consent form allowing doctors to perform the surgery. The recipient should 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.
The recipient needs to fast for 8 hours for a planned living donor transplant. However, in the case of a deceased donor, the recipient starts fast after confirmation of availability.
Before surgery, doctors give the recipient a general anaesthetic 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 healthcare provider's practices. Generally, a transplant process involves the following steps:

Preparation

Healthcare staff will ask the recipient to remove their clothes and wear a hospital gown.

IV and Catheter Insertion

Healthcare staff will insert an IV line into the arm or hand. They will also place other catheters in the neck, wrist, under the collarbone, or in the groin area.

Hair Removal

They will shave off the hair from the surgical site.

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 anaesthesiologist or nurse anaesthetist will closely monitor the patient. Monitoring includes checking heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and blood oxygen levels during the surgery.

Surgical Site Preparation

Healthcare providers will cleanse the surgical site with an antiseptic solution.

Incision

The surgeon will make a long incision in the lower abdomen on one side. Then they visually inspect the donor's kidney.

Kidney Placement

Surgeons will transplant kidneys in the lower abdomen, but the exact location can vary.

Artery and Vein Connection

They will sew the renal artery and vein of the donor kidney to the external iliac artery and vein.

Blood Flow Check

Surgeons will observe the blood flow for any bleeding at the suture lines after attaching the artery and vein.

Ureter Connection

They will connect the donor ureter to the bladder.

Closing the Incision

They will close the incision with stitches or surgical staples.

Drain Insertion

They will place a drain in the incision site to reduce swelling.

Bandaging

At last, surgeons will apply the sterile bandage or dressing.

The Role of Immunosuppressants

Recipients need to take medicines for a lifetime to survive with the transplanted kidney. The medicine enables the transplanted kidney to function properly.

The response to medication varies from person to person. However, it depends on their medical condition and the 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, doctors use many anti-rejection medicines. 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.

Immunosuppressants may weaken the immune system. But they also make patients more vulnerable to infections and require careful balancing.

These medications are crucial 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 needs to be maintained between preventing rejection and making the organ very susceptible to infection.

Anti-rejection medications alter the immune system, which may increase 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, doctors recommend taking precautions and staying away from crowds and anyone who has an infection.

Anti-Rejection medicines

Anti-rejection medicines help to stop the recipient’s body from attacking or rejecting the new kidney. These are calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus), mTOR inhibitors, antiproliferative agents, and steroids.

These drugs suppress the immune system and cause side effects. They also lower the chances of infection or stomach issues and potential long-term issues. These are generally manageable with proper medical care. These medications are necessary to maintain the functions of the 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. Other factors also matter a lot in recovery. It includes how well the new kidney starts functioning and whether the donor is living or deceased.

Healthcare providers will closely monitor the condition of patients once they are conscious. They are 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. It also includes urine output. A transplanted kidney 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.
They measure the amount of excreted urine to observe the proper functioning of the new kidney. Healthcare will place the catheter in the bladder to drain the urine.
The recipient will be on intravenous fluid (IV) until he is able to take food on his own.
Under observation, healthcare providers will ensure that the recipient is getting the right dose 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, doctors encourage the recipient to get out of bed. So that they move around several times a day.
A doctor recommends an analgesic for any pain. Avoid aspirin or other pain relievers that can cause bleeding. Only take the medicines recommended by your healthcare provider.
Before leaving the hospital, the healthcare team will guide patients. Especially on how to take care of their surgical wounds. The team includes pharmacists, dietitians, nurses, and physical therapists.
The recipient can go home after the condition of the new kidney has stabilised.
Patients need to avoid high-impact activities. Specifically, 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 the signs of kidney rejection. The symptoms of rejection are similar to other medical conditions. Long-term care and lifestyle changes are essential. They 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. For example, do not submerge the incision in water until it completely heals. They advise the recipient 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 the 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 be a sign of 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 you see symptoms such as redness, swelling, or bleeding from the incision site.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Balanced Diet

Follow a diet that supports kidney health. It should be 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. Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health and supports 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.

Time Frame (1-year)	Recipient Survival Rate	Graft Survival Rate
Deceased Donor	94.72%	92.48%.
Living Donor	98.40%	97.66%

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:

Time frame	Recipient Survival Rate	Graft Survival Rate
1 year	98.7%	94.4%
3 year	93%	87.9%
5 year	89%	81.4%

Table 02: Recipient and Graft Survival Rate 2017

According to this data, 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.

Factors Influencing Transplant Longevity

Multiple factors affect the success rate of a kidney transplant.

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 Services, 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. Younger people have a strong immune system that can reject the new kidney. 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. It 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. They 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 differs in different countries. It depends on differences in healthcare systems, hospital and surgeon fees, medical supplies and medications, and pre- and post-surgery care.

USA

The cost of a kidney transplant in the USA usually ranges from $300,000 to $500,000. It includes the cost of surgery, hospital stay, and the first year of medications. Advanced medical facilities and the overall healthcare system contribute to the high cost.

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.

India

In India, a kidney transplant is significantly more affordable. Its costs range 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.

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). It includes the cost of 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 countries. They attract people from other countries for treatment, but the quality and availability of care vary.

Special Considerations of Kidney Transplant:

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. However, advancements in immunosuppressive therapies have improved outcomes.

Living Donor vs. Deceased Donor Transplants:

Living Donor

Living donors offer higher success rates and faster transplantation. It is because of the healthy organ and the right timing. 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. It 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. In comparison to dialysis, remaining alive often doubles or triples 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.

It allows them to perform normal activities and improve their overall health.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Post-Transplant Patients

Dietary Recommendations

Recipients need to follow a healthy diet plan after kidney transplantation. A healthy diet with certain restrictions keeps the new kidney healthy and well functioning.

Patients who were receiving dialysis before needed to follow the restricted diet.

It is important to follow the specific dietary guidelines provided by the healthcare team. It is individual needs that 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 walks and exercise
Maintain a healthy weight
Stay hydrated
Limit alcohol intake
Reduce stress
Consume a low-salt and low-fat diet
Take a sufficient fibre intake

Physical Activity and Weight Management

Recipients must start exercise and physical activity after recovery. They help in improving mental health and overall well-being.

After a kidney transplant, regular exercise helps boost energy levels and increase strength. It also helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces stress. Moreover, it prevents common complications after transplant. Mostly, these complications are high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

It is better for post-transplant patients to add walking to their daily lives. Adding 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, and swimming. These activities contribute to a healthy, active lifestyle after transplant.

Always follow the guidelines of the healthcare team. Engaging in physical activity is important 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. The chance of rejection of the donated kidney in the recipient’s body. However, anti-rejection drugs (immunosuppressants) also have some side effects. Most often, it increases the risk of infection as it weakens the immune system.

Before a kidney transplant, having knowledge of the risks and benefits is important. Always consult with family and healthcare physicians regarding this.

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
The chances of failure or rejection of the donated kidney.
A donated kidney can transfer a kidney infection or cancer.
Death, heart attack, and stroke

Managing Rejection Episodes

Symptoms of Kidney Rejection

The chance of kidney rejection still exists after successful surgery. 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, and 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, and insomnia.
Hair growth or loss.
Increased appetite and noticeable weight changes.

Side Effects of Taking Anti Rejection Medicines

Patients take anti-rejection medications to 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 does a patient need to recover after kidney transplant surgery?

The time of recovery differs from patient to patient. Usually, the recovery period of a young, healthy person is 2-3 months.

The kidney function becomes more stable after three or four months. Hence, the recipient does not require frequent follow-up visits.

The risk of transplant rejection usually decreases in the first six months.

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 you can 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. However, it depends on the health and complications of 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. They must 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 should 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, regular checkups and medication are crucial. Frequent checkups ensure the health of the transplanted kidney and overall well-being.

What are the risks associated with kidney transplant surgery?

There are also risks in a kidney transplant. These risks include infection, bleeding, and other complications from anaesthesia.

Organ rejection is another concern. However, this risk increases because of weak immune system. Immunosuppressive drugs are one reason for a weak immune system.

The excessive use of immunosuppressants increases the chances of developing cancer and other illnesses.

Conclusion

A kidney transplant is a vital solution for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. It provides a chance to recover and improve overall well-being. Generally, kidney transplants have high rates of success. That’s why it is a better treatment for eligible people.

Many risks and complications can occur with kidney transplants. However, successful surgery leads to healthier and longer lives.

Always remember that recovery is possible with the right medical support. Many people live normal, healthy lives after their transplants.

Category	Foods to Avoid	Beneficial Foods
Protein	High-protein foods like red meat, processed meats	Lean proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes
Sodium	High-sodium foods like canned soups, salty snacks, and fast food	Low-sodium options such as fresh fruits and vegetables
Potassium	High-potassium foods like bananas, oranges, and potatoes	Low-potassium foods such as apples, berries, and cauliflower
Phosphorus	Foods high in phosphorus, like dairy products and nuts	Low-phosphorus foods such as rice, pasta, and non-dairy milk
Sugar	Sugary foods and beverages like candies and sodas	Fresh fruits and whole grains
Fat	High-fat foods like fried foods and fatty cuts of meat	Healthy fats such as avocados, olive oil, and nuts (in moderation)
Fluid Intake	Excessive fluids if advised by doctor	Adequate fluids, as recommended by a healthcare provider