When do you need a renal transplant?

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The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on opposite sides of the spine in the upper abdominal cavity. They help eliminate waste from blood, balance the body fluids, make urine, and help in other functions of the body. If there is renal failure many of the functions stop working, leading to other complications, multi-organ failure and finally death.

What treatments are available for renal failure?

Dialysis and kidney transplant are two types of treatment for kidney failure. Dialysis helps in the earlier stages of chronic renal failure but may not be the best long term option. It may help manage the renal failure till a viable kidney is found for transplant. Kidney transplant is the better option in the long term though there are strict criteria to be followed before an actual renal transplant can be done.

When is renal transplant an option?

Renal failure is progressive and most often renal transplant is essential in time. The reason that people wait for a long time before doing a renal transplant is because:-

• There should be a matching donor
• The donor should be healthy, preferably a family member
• The surgery and aftercare is expensive
• You need approval from the hospital board

So, in whatever stage the renal failure is in, the doctors will have to manage with dialysis and medication and diet, till a kidney is available.

Also Read: Know the Signs of Kidney Failure

What is an early transplant?

If the patient is lucky and there is a matching donor available, an early transplant, pre-empting end stage kidney failure can be done, bypassing dialysis altogether.

Risk factors in a renal transplant

• There is chance of rejection
• Steroids that are used to suppress the immune system could cause secondary infection

Though the nephrologist will advise the patient on the risk factors of a renal transplant, for a person facing complete kidney and multi-organ failure, the option is simple and straightforward.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main treatments for renal failure?

The main treatments for renal failure are dialysis and kidney transplant. Dialysis helps in the early stages, while a kidney transplant offers a long-term solution.

2. When is a renal transplant necessary?

A renal transplant is necessary when kidney failure progresses to a stage where dialysis is no longer sufficient, and a matching donor kidney is available.

3. Why might there be a delay in getting a renal transplant?

Delays can occur due to the need for a matching donor, the donor’s health condition, high costs, and the requirement of hospital board approval.

4. What is an early transplant?

An early transplant is a pre-emptive kidney transplant performed before the patient reaches end-stage kidney failure, potentially avoiding the need for dialysis.

5. What are the risks associated with a renal transplant?

Risks include the chance of organ rejection and secondary infections due to immune system suppression from steroids.

6. How do doctors manage renal failure before a transplant?

Nephrologists manage renal failure with dialysis, medication, and a specialized diet until a suitable kidney for transplant is available.

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