Kidney Transplantation

Kidney Transplantation

What Is Kidney Transplantation ?

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a donor is placed into a recipient with kidney failure. It's a treatment option for end-stage renal disease. The transplanted kidney takes over the filtering function, restoring normal kidney function. Immunosuppressive medications are often required to prevent the recipient's immune system from rejecting the new kidney. Successful transplants can significantly improve the recipient's quality of life and overall health.

What Is The Main Cause Of Kidney Transplant ?

The main cause for kidney transplants is end-stage renal disease (ESRD), often resulting from conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, and polycystic kidney disease. These conditions progressively damage the kidneys' function over time, leading to kidney failure. Dialysis can temporarily manage ESRD, but kidney transplantation becomes necessary when kidneys can no longer perform their vital filtering functions. A transplant offers the best chance at restoring normal kidney function and improving the recipient's quality of life. Donor kidneys can come from deceased or living donors, with careful matching to minimize rejection risk.

What Is Treatment ?

Kidney transplant is a treatment for end-stage renal disease. The recipient undergoes a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a donor is placed. After the transplant, immunosuppressive medications are essential to prevent the recipient's immune system from attacking the new kidney. Regular medical follow-ups monitor kidney function and adjust medications as needed. Early post-transplant care is critical to prevent complications and rejection. While a successful transplant can restore kidney function, recipients must manage medications, adhere to medical advice, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular communication with healthcare professionals is crucial for long-term transplant success.