The progression of kidney disease often occurs gradually over time and is generally asymptomatic at first. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain infections can all cause kidney problems, reducing their capacity to filter waste and excess fluids from the body. Individuals with kidney disease may suffer symptoms such as weariness, nausea, vomiting, itching, and edema as the condition progresses. End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) occurs when the kidneys fail to function properly, needing therapies such as dialysis or kidney transplantation for survival.
ESKD and the Requirement for a Kidney Transplant:
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is the last stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD), in which the kidneys have lost nearly all of their function (<15%). Dialysis is a treatment modality for ESKD and helps filter blood and remove waste but a kidney transplant is a better option for most patients. Compared to dialysis, a transplant is associated with longer life, better quality of life, and lower costs.
Who Should Consider Getting a Kidney Transplant:
A full review by a kidney specialist is required before deciding on a kidney transplant. Individuals with end-stage renal disease who are in good general health, have a solid support system and are dedicated to post-transplant care are candidates. Living-related donor transplants are the best option as they can be done quicker, provide better function, and longer transplant survival. However, for those with no living donors, can get listed for deceased donor transplants. The waiting time for deceased donor transplants is long and is usually in the 3-5 year range.
Prior to the Transplant:
Screening and Preparation:
The patient undergoing a kidney transplant will get an in-depth examination to determine their overall health. This will involve taking blood samples, imaging scans, cardiac evaluation, and reviewing their medical history.
Finding a Donor:
There are two kinds of kidney donors: living donors and deceased donors. Living donors will be relatives, including spouses. In the selection process, compatibility and suitability are critical variables. All donors undergo extensive workup to assess for 3 things:
1: Perioperative risks (risks of surgery for the donor)
2: Longterm risks for living with one kidney
3: good kidney function of the donated kidney for the recipient
Only if all the 3 are suitable is the donor accepted for donation. Donors with good workup have a low long-term risk.
Individuals on the waiting list for deceased donor transplants will get calls from their transplant program once a deceased donor offer is available for them from the local organ transplant organization.
Preparation for Surgery:
Patients are recommended to keep a healthy lifestyle, follow dietary instructions, and take prescribed medications to prepare for surgery. To make the body as ready for surgery as possible, people are encouraged to stop smoking, take care of chronic conditions, and keep a healthy weight.
During the Transplant Procedure:
Surgery & Transplant Procedure: Kidney transplant surgery is typically performed in a few hours. Surgeons attach the donor kidney’s blood vessels and ureter to the recipient’s body. During the operation, patients are put under general anesthesia.
Immediate Post-Transplant Care:
Following surgery, patients are intensively monitored in the ICU or a specialist transplant center. During this important period, monitoring vital signs, and renal function, and controlling any possible problems are major considerations.
Immunosuppressive drugs:
To prevent the donor kidney from being rejected, patients must take immunosuppressive drugs as directed. These medications decrease the immune system’s reaction, lowering the likelihood of rejection. They do, however, increase susceptibility to infections and need lifetime adherence.
Following the Transplant:
Recovery and Hospitalisation:
Depending on the patient’s healing status, the length of time spent in the hospital following a kidney transplant might vary from a few days to a week. Doctors evaluate kidney function, give medicines, and educate patients about post-transplant care during this period.
Long-Term Care and Follow-Up:
Patients receiving a transplant should maintain consistent contact with their transplant doctors even after they leave the hospital. These consultations include checking kidney function, modifying medicines, discussing issues, and offering advice on how to live a healthy lifestyle.
Lifestyle Changes and Close Monitoring:
Recipients must undertake important lifestyle changes following transplantation, including dietary changes, frequent exercise, and commitment to medication regimens. Long-term kidney health requires close monitoring for symptoms of rejection, infections, and other problems.
Epitome Hospital in Delhi:
Epitome Hospitals doctors are leaders in the field of kidney transplant in Delhi. Dr. Vijay Kher, one of the best nephrologists in Delhi, has been part of teams that have been leaders in this field and successfully completed over 5000 kidney transplants. Epitome Hospital has modern facilities, a team of experts from different fields, and a caring way of treating patients, which makes it the best place in India for people who want to get a kidney transplant.
Conclusion:
A kidney transplant is a life-changing treatment that gives people with end-stage renal disease fresh hope and a better quality of life. The key to a successful kidney transplant journey is an in-depth understanding of the disease’s causes, as well as the particulars of the transplant itself and the care required after the procedure.
Epitome Hospital in Delhi is a high-quality center for kidney transplants. Education, careful preparation, and dedicated post-transplant care are all important factors in the success of a kidney transplant. The competence and devotion of Epitome Hospital in providing the best kidney transplant outcomes, with the backing of the best team of doctors and nurses and a solid support network, are critical in ensuring long-term success and happiness following the transplant.
