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Kidney Transplant Department

A Complete Guide to Kidney Transplants: From Diagnosis to Recovery

Kidney transplants offer a lifeline for patients with advanced kidney disease, giving them a second chance to a healthy life. This guide covers everything you need to know—from understanding kidney diseases to the latest in surgical advancements—and highlights why Sushrut Hospital, with its cutting-edge Laparoscopic Donor Surgery and 100% success rate, is one of the most trusted kidney transplant hospital in Mumbai.​


What Causes Kidney Disease?

The kidneys play a critical role in maintaining overall health by filtering waste, balancing fluids, and producing hormones. When they are damaged, waste builds up in the body, leading to serious complications.

Common Causes of Kidney Disease:

  1. Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2):
    High blood sugar damages the kidneys’ delicate filtering units (nephrons), making diabetes the leading cause of kidney failure.

  2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):
    Constant pressure damages blood vessels in the kidneys, affecting their ability to filter efficiently.

  3. Glomerulonephritis:
    An inflammatory condition that damages the kidney's filters.

  4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):
    A genetic disorder causing fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys, impairing function.

  5. Infections and Autoimmune Disorders:
    Conditions like lupus or recurrent urinary infections can cause kidney damage.

Signs of Kidney Disease:

Early detection is crucial to slowing progression. Look out for these symptoms:

  • Swelling in the hands, feet, or face

  • Persistent fatigue and weakness

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Blood or foam in the urine

  • Frequent urination, especially at night

  • High blood pressure

  • Shortness of breath


When is a Kidney Transplant Necessary?

A kidney transplant is recommended for patients with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), where the kidneys lose 90% or more of their function. While dialysis can sustain life, a kidney transplant offers better long-term outcomes and quality of life.

Benefits of a Kidney Transplant Over Dialysis:

  • Increased Longevity: Patients often live longer with a functioning transplant than on dialysis.

  • Improved Quality of Life: Greater energy, fewer dietary restrictions, and more freedom.

  • Lower Healthcare Costs: Over time, a transplant is less expensive than continuous dialysis.


Understanding Kidney Diseases and Their Progression

Factors Affecting Kidney Failure
The progression of kidney failure is influenced by many factors that remain partially understood. Researchers continue to investigate how elements like dietary protein and blood cholesterol levels impact kidney function.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Some kidney issues occur suddenly, such as from physical trauma or a severe loss of blood. Certain medications or toxins can also cause the kidneys to suddenly stop functioning. This condition, known as acute kidney injury (AKI) or acute renal failure (ARF), can sometimes lead to permanent kidney damage. However, if the injury is not severe, kidney function may recover fully with proper treatment.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Unlike AKI, many kidney conditions progress gradually over time. Chronic kidney disease (CKD)—also referred to as chronic renal insufficiency—often develops silently over several years. CKD can eventually result in permanent kidney failure and increases the risk of life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes.

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

When kidney function deteriorates completely or almost entirely, it is classified as end-stage renal disease (ESRD). At this stage, patients need either dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.


What is Kidney Transplant? 

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a donor is placed into a person whose kidneys are no longer functioning properly, restoring the body's ability to filter waste and maintain essential balance.

Types of Kidney Transplants

  1. Living Donor Transplant:
    • The kidney is donated by a healthy individual (family member, friend, or altruistic donor).

    • Advantages: Better outcomes, shorter waiting times, and the ability to plan the surgery in advance.

  2. Deceased Donor Transplant:
    • The kidney is sourced from a recently deceased donor.

    • Challenges: Longer waiting periods due to a limited supply of donor organs.

  3. Preemptive Transplant:
    • Performed before the need for dialysis arises.

    • Benefits: Better overall health outcomes compared to starting dialysis first.


The Kidney Transplant Procedure

The Process at Sushrut Hospital:
 At Sushrut, kidney transplants are meticulously planned and executed by an experienced team of nephrologists and surgeons. Here’s an overview of the process:

  1. Evaluation and Compatibility Testing:
    • Comprehensive tests to match the donor and recipient's blood type and tissue compatibility.

  2. Donor Surgery – Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy:
     
    • Sushrut Hospital specializes in Laparoscopic Donor Surgery. This minimally invasive technique involves small incisions, reducing pain and recovery time for donors.

  3. Recipient Surgery:
     
    • The donated kidney is placed in the recipient’s lower abdomen and connected to blood vessels and the bladder.

  4. Post-Operative Care:
     
    • Close monitoring to ensure the body accepts the new kidney. Immunosuppressive medications are prescribed to prevent rejection.


Why Choose Laparoscopic Donor Surgery?

Laparoscopic Donor Surgery is one of Sushrut Hospital’s key strengths. Here’s why this technique is preferred:

  • Minimally Invasive: Small incisions instead of a large abdominal cut.

  • Less Pain: Donors experience less post-operative discomfort.

  • Faster Recovery: Shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to daily activities.

  • Minimal Scarring: Better cosmetic outcomes.

  • Lower Risk: Fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery.

This innovative approach not only encourages more people to consider organ donation but also ensures donor safety and well-being.


Risks and Complications of Kidney Transplants

While kidney transplants have high success rates, like any surgery, they carry risks:

  • Surgical Risks: Infection, bleeding, and blood clots.

  • Organ Rejection: The immune system may attack the new kidney.

  • Medication Side Effects: Immunosuppressants can lead to weight gain, diabetes, or increased infection risk.

  • Delayed Graft Function: The new kidney may take time to function properly.

At Sushrut Hospital, our comprehensive pre- and post-surgery care minimizes these risks. Our team provides tailored care plans to ensure the best outcomes.

Success Rates and Why Sushrut Stands Out

Sushrut Hospital has achieved an impressive 100% success rate in kidney transplants. This achievement is a result of:

  • Advanced Techniques: Adoption of minimally invasive procedures like Laparoscopic Donor Surgery.

  • Expert Team: Our team consist of highly skilled surgeons & experienced neurologists like –

    • Dr. Anil Venkatachalam

    • Dr. Mukund Andankar

    • Dr. Jayesh Dabhalia

    • Dr. Anil Bradoo

    • Dr. Rajendra Umbarkar

    • Dr. Viswanath Billa

    • Dr. Deepa Usulumarty

  • Comprehensive Care: From thorough pre-transplant evaluations to dedicated post-surgery follow-ups.

  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern infrastructure ensuring precision, safety, and comfort.


Life After Kidney Transplant

Recovery Tips:

  • Follow Medication Guidelines: Immunosuppressants are crucial to prevent rejection.

  • Regular Check-Ups: Routine visits to monitor kidney function.

  • Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol.

Emotional Support:
 Sushrut Hospital offers counseling and support groups to help patients adjust post-transplant.


Considering a Kidney Transplant? Reach Out to Sushrut

Choosing the right hospital for a kidney transplant is a life-changing decision. At Sushrut Hospital, you’ll find innovation, expert care, and a commitment to excellence. Our focus on Laparoscopic Donor Surgery, combined with a 100% success rate, ensures you’re in safe hands.

Contact us today to learn more:

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Call: 022-69585500

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