Kidney Transplant
This topic will help you understand kidney transplantation and how to prepare for it.
What Is the Kidney Transplant Procedure?
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure that involves transferring a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor to the patient. The patient requires a kidney transplant when the kidney loses its function of filtering waste from the body, which poses a threat to human health due to the accumulation of these wastes.
The kidneys lose their functions in the last stage of kidney diseases or in acute kidney failure.
When Is aKidney Transplant Performed?.
A patient needs a kidney transplant in the last stage of kidney diseases or in the case of kidney failure. Kidney transplantation is considered an alternative treatment to dialysis.
How To Prepare for a Kidney Transplant?
- Preparing for a kidney transplant involves several stages, including:
- Choosing the appropriate transplant centers.
- Finding a matching donor.
- Undergoing examinations and tests such as physical examination, blood type determination, tissue typing, and compatibility testing.
- Undergoing imaging as determined by the doctor.
- Maintaining health through:
- Engaging in moderate exercise as it boosts your energy and reduces stress and pressure. Consult your medical team to determine the right exercise for you.
- Following a diet prescribed by the medical team.
- Reducing fluid intake: Consult your medical team for advice on the amount of fluids you are allowed to consume daily.
- Quitting smoking.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Continuously taking the medications prescribed by your doctor.
- Not missing any dialysis sessions.
Spending time with family and friends helps boost your mental health before the operation.
- Before surgery:
- Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you, and you can ask questions.
- You will be asked to sign a consent form giving permission for the procedure; read the form carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- You will be asked about the last time you ate or drank anything. If general anesthesia is required, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 8 hours before the procedure.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to any medication or anesthesia.
- Inform your healthcare provider of all medications (prescription and over-the-counter), vitamins, herbs, and supplements you take.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of bleeding disorders, or if you are taking any blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants), aspirin, or other medications affecting blood clotting. You may be asked to stop these medications before the procedure.
- You may be given medication to reduce stomach acid. These also help dry out secretions in your mouth and airways.
