Pediatric Kidney Transplant

There are two types of kidney transplants depending on whether the donor is deceased or living. Here are the two types of a pediatric kidney transplant - 

• Deceased donor - The doctor can suggest a kidney transplant from a healthy person who just died. In order to get a kidney from a deceased donor, the child must be added to the national waiting list which could take a few months to even years.

• Living donor -  Your child can also receive a kidney from a healthy, living person if they are willing to donate it. The donor can continue to live a normal and healthy life with one kidney after the donation. Usually, parents are considered to be the ideal donors of children with kidney diseases since they often have the same blood type and are a tissue match. 

Kidney transplants in children usually last for two to four hours depending on the severity of the condition and the medical expertise of the surgeon. During the procedure, the surgeon places the kidney in the pelvis and not in the usual kidney location in the flank area without hindering the other organs. The surgeon then surgically connects the artery carrying blood to the kidney with the vein removing blood from it. 

Subsequently, the ureter is transplanted through an incision in the bladder. After the kidney transplant procedure, the child is taken to the recovery room to monitor the vitals and check the recovery progress. Once the surgery is over, the surgeon will inform you about your child’s recovery. 

Kidney transplants in children usually last for two to four hours depending on the severity of the condition and the medical expertise of the surgeon. During the procedure, the surgeon places the kidney in the pelvis and not in the usual kidney location in the flank area without hindering the other organs. The surgeon then surgically connects the artery carrying blood to the kidney with the vein removing blood from it. 

Subsequently, the ureter is transplanted through an incision in the bladder. After the kidney transplant procedure, the child is taken to the recovery room to monitor the vitals and check the recovery progress. Once the surgery is over, the surgeon will inform you about your child’s recovery. 

Consult a doctor in case your child’s symptoms do not improve with time. Consider seeking medical assistance from a healthcare professional if your child is experiencing the following - 

• High fever (more than 100° F) 
• Chronic pain or tenderness around the kidney
• Swelling (oedema)
• Flu-like symptoms such as chills, headaches, dizziness or nausea and vomiting
• Congenital defects
• Noticeably decreased amount of urine (your child may not pee for a longer time)

The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI) is one of the largest multispecialty hospitals in Kolkata. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, revolutionising the healthcare industry for the best surgical outcomes. 

In addition, our hospital has several eminent physicians, surgeons and healthcare providers of national and international repute for comprehensive and personalised treatment. CMRI provides patient-centric care and empathy from internationally trained nurses to ensure holistic care for patients seeking kidney transplants in children in Kolkata. Here are a few advantages of choosing CMRI for pediatric kidney transplant procedures - 

• Highly qualified and experienced surgeons
• 440-bed capacity along with cutting-edge technology and the latest medical equipment
• Hygienic and patient-friendly infrastructure
• Screening and diagnosis
• Transparent Pricing Structure for cost-effective treatment
• Patient-centric high-quality care for a high success rate
• Pain management and palliative care
• Complete and coordinated care for patients with all types of cancers.

Get in touch with our expert nephrologists at CMRI, Kolkata for complete Pediatric Kidney Transplant treatment.

On average, your child’s recovery may take around 6 weeks depending on several factors. However, the doctor generally provides a set of instructions after your child’s kidney transplant for faster recovery - 

• Staying hydrated
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods
• Get an adequate amount of protein in your child’s diet
• Avoid grapefruit juice
• Avoid strenuous activities or going to the gym
• Encourage your child to do minimal exercises including jogging, bicycling, swimming, etc.
• Do not let them engage in contact sports