Kidney Transplant: Specialists & Information

Every healthy person has two kidneys. The kidneys are vital organs that perform several functions: They

• filter toxins from the body,
• regulate the body’s fluid balance, and
• play a role in regulating blood pressure.

If the kidneys can no longer perform their functions, regular dialysis (blood cleansing) may help in some cases. However, dialysis cannot take over all the functions of a healthy kidney.

Many people would therefore benefit more from a donor kidney, which is then implanted into the body through kidney transplant surgery. After a kidney transplant, the patient’s quality of life and life expectancy are higher.

A donor kidney can come from a deceased person or from a living donor. Since the body can function well with just one kidney, some people are willing to donate one of their healthy kidneys. Donating a kidney is often a good option, especially among close relatives.

A kidney transplant is the best treatment option for end-stage kidney disease. This means that the kidneys are no longer functioning properly.

Various conditions can cause lasting damage to the kidneys, such as

• diabetic nephropathy, which results from long-standing diabetes,
• nephrosclerosis, which can result from poorly controlled blood pressure,
• shrunken kidneys,
• cystic kidneys,
• frequent inflammation of the renal pelvis, or
• severe injuries.

A kidney transplant involves several stages, which typically include:

• Waiting period,
• preparation and surgery,
• the initial post-operative period,
• the transition to a new life.

Waiting period

Much to the patients’ dismay, there are far more transplants needed than there are organs available. As a result, even patients with an urgent need must be placed on a waiting list.

It is impossible to predict with certainty how long a patient will actually have to wait for a kidney. The waiting period can range from a few months to several years.

Preparing for Surgery

While waiting for a donor kidney, the patient must always be easily reachable. If the patient receives a kidney from a living donor, the surgery can be planned well in advance. However, if the kidney comes from a deceased donor, it must be implanted within a few hours. This means the surgery may have to be scheduled on very short notice.

Regardless of the donor, the recipient must undergo many tests to minimize risks as much as possible. For example, a cross-match test is used to determine whether the donor organ is compatible with the recipient’s body.

Even before the procedure, patients are often given immunosuppressants to suppress the immune system.

For severely ill patients with kidney failure, dialysis may be performed beforehand.

The Postoperative Period

The first few months after surgery are very important. Immunosuppressants play a major role during this time. The patient must take them continuously after surgery, as the body might otherwise reject the donor organ.

In the first few months after the kidney transplant, the patient must undergo further examinations. During these visits, the doctor adjusts the medication dosage as needed.

Afterward—and once the patient’s condition is stable—they can enjoy their new life. Of course, they must take good care of their body to ensure long-term success.

Are there any complications? What is the life expectancy after a kidney transplant?

Every surgery carries risks and dangers. These can include

• inflammation,
• infections, or
• wound healing complications

.

There is also a possibility that the body will reject the donor organ despite all precautions.

There is no general answer to the question of life expectancy with a donor kidney. Life expectancy depends on various factors, such as

• the patient’s age,
• the length of time they have been on dialysis,
• whether they tolerate the new organ and the medications, and
• whether the organ was donated by a deceased donor or a living donor.

It is generally assumed that the highest life expectancy is achieved with a donor organ from a close relative.

Various medical professionals are involved in a kidney transplant. First and foremost, nephrologists—kidney specialists—play a crucial role. Nephrology is a branch of internal medicine that primarily deals with kidney diseases and high blood pressure.

Surgeons and urologists are also involved in all aspects of a kidney transplant.

Having the right specialists—both during pre- and post-operative care as well as during the surgery itself—is essential for long-term treatment success.