Transforming Lives with Kidney Transplant

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased kidney with a healthy one from a donor. This treatment is typically reserved for individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) when dialysis is insufficient or unsustainable. The donor kidney can come from either a living donor, such as a family member or friend, or from a deceased donor whose organs have been preserved for transplantation.

During the transplant, the surgeon places the new kidney in the lower abdomen and connects the arteries and veins from the donor kidney to the recipient's blood vessels. The ureter from the donor kidney is also attached to the recipient's bladder to allow urine to pass out of the body. Notably, the recipient's diseased kidneys are usually left in place unless there is a specific medical reason to remove them.

A successful kidney transplant can significantly improve the quality of life, eliminating the need for dialysis and restoring more normal kidney function. Patients undergoing this surgery require lifelong management, including medications to suppress the immune system to prevent organ rejection. Regular follow-ups and health monitoring are crucial to ensure the longevity of the transplanted kidney and the overall health of the recipient.