Kidney Transplant
Patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) are normally the candidates who require kidney transplants. End stage renal disease is the most severe form of renal (or kidney) failure. At this stage, the kidneys are not able to perform their functions. This could result in build up of toxins and excess fluids in the body. Other crucial kidney functions, such as the production of red blood cell, are also affected. Without dialysis or a transplant, this condition is fatal. Once it has been determined that a patient is in need of a transplant, a suitable donor must be located.
The Kidney Transplant Process If a transplant is a patient's best treatment option, they should first seek the advice of their health care provider on how to proceed. A profile of the patient (potential recipient) should be done, so that it can be compared to the profile of a potential donor. This will help to ensure that both donor and recipient have similar blood and tissue profile. The next step is to locate a kidney donor or a donated kidney. The patient should find out the procedure, for being included on the waiting list for a donated kidney. In some places it may be possible to be placed on more than one waiting list, at different institutions. Both patient and donor must fulfill the criteria for a kidney-transplant. Patients should also do some research to locate a reputable institution where the transplant surgery can be performed. Be sure to find out about the institution's track record with transplants. Ask about the surgeon or surgeons and their experience in performing transplants. Once a suitable institutions is located, discuss the entire procedure with them to ensure that all is in place to minimize delays and misunderstandings. In addition to the donor and recipient having similar blood type etc., the risk of rejection is further reduced by the use of medications that suppress the immune system. This in itself poses another risk to the recipient. During the period when the immune system is suppressed, the chances of contracting infections and other diseases are increased. Thankfully, advances in modern medicine have produced medications to minimize these risks. Patients who are fortunate enough to receive a kidney transplant have an excellent chance of, not only extending their life but also, enjoying a much better quality of life. Recent studies have indicated that the typical patient will live 10-15 years longer with a kidney transplant than if they stayed on dialysis. Patients tend to have more energy, a less restricted diet, and fewer complications with a transplant than if they stay on dialysis. Even professional athletes have made a comeback to their sport after receiving a transplant. The cases of kidney disease continues to increase, worldwide. The demand for donated kidneys is increasing daily. In fact, kidneys top the list of organs in demand by patients awaiting transplants. Patients who are awaiting a transplant could experience great anxiety, since there is no guarantee they would receive a donated kidney. The demand for kidneys, for transplant purposes, far exceeds the supply. In spite of the challenges associated with finding a donor, a patient should not lose hope. A patient who has end stage renal disease and meets the criteria for a kidney transplant, should discuss their prognosis with their health care provider. The keys to help maximize the chances of a successful kidney transplant are planning and perseverance. It is important for the patient to find out as much as possible about the entire procedure and understand their role and responsibility, as well as the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved. ______________________________________________________
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