For patients suffering from end-stage renal disease (ESRD), a kidney transplant can be life-altering. It surpasses the benefits provided by dialysis in offering enhanced freedom, life quality, and longevity. Even so, there is a detailed and at times convoluted preparatory phase that needs to be completed first.
At southernokc.com, we guide our patients through each step of their journey with compassion and expertise. Here is the information you need for your transplant preparation.
Overview of The Transplant Procedure
As the name suggests, a kidney transplant involves placing an healthy donor kidney inside your abdomen. Donors can be either:
- A living donor – typically family or friends.
- A deceased donor – individuals who have opted for organ donation after death.
There is no immediate qualification requirement but the team will examine lifestyle factors as well as surgical rehab preparedness. With SouthernOKC, your nephrologist partners with other centers to ensure proper management throughout the entire process.
Are You a Candidate for Transplant?
A few things will determine if you’re qualified:
- You have end-stage renal failure and are on dialysis or nearing the need for it
- You are in good health (heart and lungs, etc.)
- You are able to handle the complex medication regimen, appointments, and adhere to post-transplant protocols
- You do not have any cancers, infections, or other high-risk conditions
As has been discussed on the Kidney Disease & Anemia page, certain conditions like severe anemia must be treated well before surgery in order to mitigate risk.
Evaluation and Tests
The pre-transplant evaluation includes:
- Blood work for type and antibodies;
- Anatomical imaging (ultrasounds, x-rays, CT scans);
- Heart function tests;
- Comprehensive cancer screening;
- Psychological and social evaluations;
This thorough process ensures your physical and mental readiness. The care team at SouthernOKC supports you through every step of this in-depth preparation from rationale to logistics.
Living Donor vs Deceased Donor
Transplants from living donors are more favorable because they shorten wait times as well as increase success rates. Living donor transplants can also be scheduled which adds more convenience.
Unfortunately many patients needing transplants still require kidneys from deceased donors which may involve longer waiting periods; however the Southern Oklahoma Kidney Center assists their patients with registration onto transplant waiting lists and during pre-transplant care.
Staying Healthy While Waiting
Whether you are on the waitlist for a kidney or have been approved for surgery, it is vital to help maximize your health:
- Monitor and manage blood pressure and sugar levels
- Follow dietary guidelines specific to kidneys
- Attend dialysis sessions if applicable
- Prevent infections as well as keep vaccinations up to date
The diabetes section on Kidney Disease & Diabetes illustrates how poorly managed diabetes can exacerbate transplant eligibility, so it must be managed very well.
What Happens After Transplant?
You will be placed on anti-rejection drugs immediately after receiving the transplant in order to stop your body from attacking the new kidney. With regular check-ups, blood tests, coupled with healthy lifestyle practices, you will maintain your kidney for many years.
Most individuals experience recovery in approximately a few weeks; however, there is a range of 2-3 months until someone can fully immerse themselves back into work or daily routines. You will receive guidance pertaining to each phase from your transplant team during this period of time.
Emotional Support Is Key
The journey towards getting a hint can take an emotional toll. Feeling nervous or overwhelmed is perfectly normal. As part of SouthernOKC’s holistic approach, patients are supported through their concerns using counseling or support groups tailored towards these emotions.
With proper dedication, instruction, and guidance, the preparation for a kidney transplant can be profoundly rewarding. At Southern OKC, the nephrology team collaborates with transplant specialists to ensure support at every stage.
Get in touch with Southern Oklahoma Kidney Center today if you or a loved one is interested in receiving a personalized plan for their transplant preparation journey.
