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A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a diseased or non-functional kidney with a healthy kidney from a donor. While kidney transplantation is a major surgery with potential risks and complications, it is often the most effective treatment option for those with serious kidney conditions.
This procedure is typically performed on patients who have end-stage kidney disease or other severe kidney conditions that cannot be effectively treated through other means such as dialysis. In this article let’s find out more about kidney functions, disorders, and transplant procedures.
Functions of the Kidney
The kidneys are vital organs in the human body responsible for several critical functions that are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Some of its functions are:
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Remove urea and liquid waste from the blood in the form of urine. Urea is made when foods containing protein, such as meat, poultry, and certain vegetables, are broken down in the body. Urea is carried in the blood to the kidneys.
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Balance salts, electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium, and other substances in the blood.
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Produce erythropoietin, a hormone that aids the formation of red blood cells.
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Regulate blood pressure.
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Regulate fluid and acid-base balance in the body to keep it neutral. This is needed for the normal function of many processes within the body.
Consult with the best nephrologists in Kharadi, Pune to know more about the functions of the kidney and how to keep the kidney healthy for the rest of your life.
When is a Kidney Transplant Recommended
One may need a kidney transplant if one has end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This is a permanent condition of kidney failure. A kidney transplant is a surgery to place a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor into a person whose kidneys no longer function properly.
A kidney transplant is often the treatment of choice for kidney failure, compared with a lifetime on dialysis. A kidney transplant can treat chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease to help you feel better and live longer. The success of kidney transplantation largely depends on the compatibility between the donor and the recipient, as well as the overall health of both individuals.
Compared with dialysis, kidney transplant is associated with:
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Better quality of life.
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Lower risk of death.
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Fewer dietary restrictions.
But a kidney transplant may be riskier for certain people with kidney failure than dialysis. Conditions that may prevent you from being eligible for a kidney transplant include:
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Advanced age
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Severe heart disease.
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Active or recently treated cancer.
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Dementia or poorly controlled mental illness.
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Alcohol or drug abuse
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Any other factor that could affect the ability to safely undergo the procedure and take the medications needed after a transplant to prevent organ rejection.
Common causes of end-stage kidney disease include:
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Diabetes
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Chronic, uncontrolled high blood pressure.
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Chronic glomerulonephritis — an inflammation and eventual scarring of the tiny filters within the kidneys.
A transplant team carries out the evaluation process for a kidney. The team includes a transplant surgeon, a transplant nephrologist (healthcare provider specializing in the treatment of the kidneys), one or more transplant nurses, a social worker, and a psychiatrist or psychologist. Other team members may include a dietitian, a chaplain, and/or an anesthesiologist.
Steps Involved in a Kidney Transplant Procedure
If you are to get a kidney from a living family member (living-related transplant), the transplant may be done at a planned time. The donor must have a compatible blood type and be in good health. A mental health check will be done to be sure the donor is comfortable with the decision.
These steps will happen before the transplant:
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Your transplant team will explain the procedure to you and you can ask questions.
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You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the surgery. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something is not clear.
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If you have been on routine dialysis before the procedure, you will get dialysis before the procedure.
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Based on your medical condition, your transplant team may ask for other specific preparation.
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Many kidney transplant patients are able to return to work within a few months following a successful surgery. However, various aspects of the recovery process can affect the timing of your return.
Post Kidney Transplant Care
After a kidney transplant, it's important to take good care of yourself to ensure the success of the procedure and avoid any complications. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:
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Take medications as prescribed
You will be given immunosuppressant medications to prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney. These medications are important to take exactly as prescribed, even if you feel fine.
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Monitor your vitals
Your healthcare team will monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature frequently to ensure that everything is normal.
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Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids to help your new kidney function properly.
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Follow a healthy diet
Eat a balanced diet that is low in salt and fat to help your new kidney function properly.
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Avoid infections
You are at an increased risk of infection after a transplant, so it's important to avoid contact with people who are sick and practice good hand hygiene.
The cost of a kidney transplant in Kharadi, Pune depends on several factors such as the hospital, the aftercare the hospital is providing, the clinical excellence which is being offered, and more. Connect with us for consultation and to get an estimate of the cost of the transplant at the best kidney transplant hospital in Kharadi Pune.
We also invite you to read our blogs on numerous health and lifestyle topics that will help you stay fit and offer credible information regarding the treatment of diseases and aftercare.
