Kidney transplant surgery can be a life-saving procedure for individuals with end-stage kidney failure. While dialysis can help manage kidney dysfunction temporarily, a transplant offers a long-term solution that improves both survival and quality of life. But many patients and families often ask: When is a kidney transplant needed? And how is the procedure performed?
In this blog, Dr. Sumit Chaudhari, a highly experienced Urologist Specialist in Pimple Saudagar, Pune, explains the right time for kidney transplant and how the surgery is carried out.
When Is Kidney Transplant Needed?
The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure. When they begin to fail, toxins accumulate in the body, leading to dangerous complications.
A kidney transplant is recommended when a patient reaches end-stage renal disease (ESRD)—a condition in which the kidneys function at less than 10–15% of their normal capacity. Common causes of ESRD include:
- Diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chronic glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters)
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract
While dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) can help remove waste from the blood temporarily, a kidney transplant provides a more effective and permanent solution for eligible patients.
Who Can Receive a Kidney Transplant?
Not every patient with kidney disease is a suitable candidate for transplant. Evaluation includes:
- Overall health condition
- Presence of serious infections, cancer, or heart disease
- Psychological readiness
- Compliance with post-transplant medication and lifestyle changes
Dr. Sumit Chaudhari ensures that each patient undergoes a thorough assessment before being added to the transplant waiting list or when considering a living donor.
Types of Kidney Transplants
There are two main types of kidney transplants:
- Living Donor Transplant: A healthy person (usually a family member or close relative) donates one of their kidneys. Humans can live with one kidney, making this a safe and common option. Living donor transplants often lead to better outcomes and shorter waiting times.
- Deceased Donor Transplant: A kidney is obtained from a recently deceased person who had agreed to organ donation. These transplants are coordinated through government-approved registries and may require the patient to be on a waiting list.
How Is the Kidney Transplant Surgery Done?
A kidney transplant is a major surgical procedure that usually takes 3–4 hours. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
- Preoperative Evaluation: This includes blood tests, imaging, and tissue matching to ensure compatibility between the donor and recipient.
- Surgical Process: The new kidney is placed in the lower abdomen (pelvic region). The surgeon connects the blood vessels of the donor kidney to the recipient’s blood vessels and attaches the ureter (the tube that carries urine) to the bladder. The patient’s diseased kidneys are usually left in place unless they are causing complications like infection or high blood pressure.
- Recovery and Monitoring: After surgery, the patient is monitored in the hospital for 7–10 days. Anti-rejection medications (immunosuppressants) are started immediately and must be continued lifelong to prevent the body from rejecting the new kidney.
Benefits of Kidney Transplant
Compared to long-term dialysis, kidney transplantation offers several benefits:
- Improved quality of life
- Greater freedom from dialysis sessions
- Better blood pressure control
- Improved energy and appetite
- Longer life expectancy for eligible patients
With proper medical follow-up and a healthy lifestyle, many patients enjoy a normal, active life after a successful transplant.
Care and Expertise You Can Trust in Pune
Dr. Sumit Chaudhari is a renowned Urologist and Kidney Transplant Specialist in Pimple Saudagar, Pune, known for his patient-centered approach and expertise in urology and renal care. From accurate diagnosis to post-transplant management, he ensures each patient receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.
A kidney transplant can offer a second chance at life for patients with end-stage kidney failure. Recognizing the right time and understanding the process are essential for making informed decisions. If you or a loved one is facing kidney-related issues, consult Dr. Sumit Chaudhari in Pimple Saudagar to explore your options and receive expert guidance at every step of the journey.
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