There are several important factors to consider before undergoing a kidney transplant procedure:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Patients must undergo an extensive medical assessment to determine their candidacy for transplant. This includes evaluating the patient’s overall health, the severity of their kidney disease, and the suitability for the procedure.
- Finding a Donor: Securing a compatible donor, either from a living or deceased source, is a crucial step. The donor and recipient must be carefully matched to minimize the risk of rejection.
- Transplant Surgery: The transplant surgery itself typically takes 3-4 hours, with the new kidney being placed in the lower abdomen. The patient’s own kidneys may be left in place unless they are causing complications.
- Post-Operative Care: After the surgery, patients require close monitoring and care in the hospital for several days. Lifelong immunosuppressant medications are necessary to prevent rejection of the transplanted kidney.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Kidney transplant recipients must make significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications, regular exercise, and close medical follow-ups, to ensure the long-term success of the transplanted organ.
Understanding these key factors helps prepare patients for the kidney transplant journey and sets realistic expectations for the process and post-operative recovery.
Hiranandani Hospital Asked question April 18, 2024