Kidney Transplant

A kidney transplant is typically recommended for patients who are experiencing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe, irreversible kidney failure. To be considered eligible for a kidney transplant, patients generally need to meet the following criteria:

• Permanent or advanced kidney failure: Usually when kidney function falls below 10–15% of normal, making dialysis or transplantation necessary.
• Absence of active substance abuse: Patients must not have ongoing issues with alcohol or illicit drugs, as this can affect recovery and long-term outcomes.
• Psychological and emotional stability: Individuals must be mentally and emotionally prepared to manage the lifelong care requirements, including taking immunosuppressive medication.
• Availability of a compatible donor or suitability for the transplant waiting list: This may involve a living donor (such as a family member or friend) or placement on the national deceased donor list.
• Strong support system: It is important to have family members or caregivers who can provide assistance during recovery and help with long-term management.
• General medical fitness: Patients must be healthy enough to undergo major surgery and tolerate long-term immunosuppressive treatment, as determined through comprehensive pre-transplant assessments.

Each case is carefully evaluated by a multidisciplinary transplant team to ensure the best possible outcomes.

The kidney transplant process comprises several key stages, from the initial assessment through to long-term follow-up care. Each step is critical to achieving the best possible outcome.

Evaluation

The process commences with a thorough evaluation, including blood tests, cardiac assessments, and various imaging scans.

Identifying a donor

A suitable kidney is identified through careful tissue and blood type matching, whether from a living or deceased donor. Once a match is confirmed, the surgery can be scheduled.

During the surgery

• Anaesthesia
  You will be administered general anaesthesia to ensure you remain pain-free and unconscious throughout the procedure.
• Surgical procedure
  Our surgeons will make an incision in the lower abdomen to position the new kidney. They will then connect the associated blood vessels and ureter.
• Monitoring
  Throughout the operation, your vital signs will be meticulously monitored. The surgery typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours.

Post-operative care

Following surgery, you will be transferred to a recovery area where your vital signs will continue to be closely observed. Pain management will be initiated, and you will receive necessary medications and fluids intravenously.

Hospital stay

You can expect to remain in hospital for approximately 3 to 7 days. During this period, your kidney function will be monitored and your medications adjusted accordingly.

A kidney transplant is performed to significantly improve the lives of patients suffering from long-term kidney failure. However, as with any major surgical procedure, it involves certain risks alongside its considerable benefits.

Risks

Potential complications of kidney transplantation include:

• Rejection or failure of the donated kidney
• Infections
• Blood clots or bleeding
• Transmission of cancer or infection from the donated kidney
• Leakage or blockage of the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder

Benefits

The advantages of undergoing a kidney transplant include:

• Freedom from dialysis
• Increased life expectancy
• Restoration of more normal bodily functions
• Improved nutritional status compared to patients on dialysis
• Elimination of time-consuming dialysis sessions

Following a kidney transplant, it is imperative to adopt healthy habits, such as maintaining a balanced diet, adhering strictly to prescribed medications, engaging in regular physical activity, and abstaining from smoking and alcohol. Routine follow-up appointments will be essential to monitor kidney function and overall recovery.

 

At CMRI Hospital, Kolkata, we utilise state-of-the-art technology to ensure that kidney transplantation is safe, efficient, and cost-effective. Our team of highly qualified and experienced specialists is dedicated to providing exemplary care.

We uphold the highest standards of medical practice and never compromise on the quality of healthcare delivered. Whether you require a consultation regarding kidney transplantation or seek a second opinion, we are here to support and guide you.