Kidney transplant
What is kidney transplant?
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor into a person with kidney failure. Receiving a new kidney does not cure kidney disease but requires ongoing treatment with medications, including immunosuppressants that reduce the risk of the body rejecting the transplanted kidney.
Many people with kidney failure are good candidates for a transplant, but not all.
Transplantation considerations
Whenever possible, transplantation is the best treatment option. If you want to learn more about kidney transplantation, talk to your doctor. You should know that the best chance of successful surgery depends on several factors, including:
Your overall health
To make sure you’re healthy enough to have surgery, you’ll need a thorough physical exam and a series of tests to screen for any medical conditions that might prevent you from getting a good outcome.
Good kidney donor match
For a transplant to be successful, the new kidney must come from a donor with the same tissue type and compatible blood type. The ideal match comes from a living donor, usually a relative, with the same tissue and blood type, and whose genetic characteristics are most similar to yours. If a living donor is not an option, you may still be a good match, but you will need to be placed on a kidney donor waiting list.
Timing
Discuss the average wait time for a match with your transplant nurse or doctor. Donors waiting for a kidney will need to continue dialysis treatments until a kidney is obtained.
How long does a kidney transplant last?
Donated kidneys last an average of 10-15 years. This is because kidney function slowly declines over time. After that, you always have the option of undergoing dialysis or trying to find a second donor kidney.
Make wise choices
Transplantation is a highly personal topic—one that deserves your time and thought. You should first discuss your situation with your doctor. Talking to others about the benefits and drawbacks of a transplant can also help you make the decision that’s best for you.