Kidney Transplant
Kidney Transplant
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a donor is placed into a person whose kidneys have failed to function properly. This treatment is often the best option for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), providing a chance for a healthier, longer, and more active life compared to long-term dialysis.
The new kidney can come from:
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Deceased Donor: Someone who has recently died and consented to organ donation.
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Living Donor: Usually a family member, friend, or even a stranger who is a compatible match.
Why is a Kidney Transplant Needed?
A kidney transplant becomes necessary when the kidneys lose about 85-90% of their function. This condition, known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or chronic kidney failure, means the kidneys cannot:
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Filter waste products from the blood.
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Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
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Regulate blood pressure and produce essential hormones.
Common causes of kidney failure include:
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Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
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High blood pressure (Hypertension)
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Glomerulonephritis (Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units)
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Polycystic kidney disease (Genetic condition causing cysts in the kidneys)
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Severe urinary tract obstructions
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Chronic infections and autoimmune diseases
Types of Kidney Transplants
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Living Donor Transplant:
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A kidney is donated by a living person (usually a family member or close friend).
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Advantages:
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Better survival rates.
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Shorter wait time.
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Reduced risk of rejection due to genetic match.
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Deceased Donor Transplant:
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A kidney is obtained from a recently deceased donor.
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Patients are placed on a waiting list, which can take months or years.
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