Kidney Transplant: A Lifesaving Procedure
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure that replaces a diseased or non-functioning kidney with a healthy kidney from either a deceased or living donor. It is a crucial treatment option for individuals with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), where the kidneys can no longer perform essential functions like filtering waste from the blood and maintaining electrolyte balance.
Causes of Kidney Transplant End-stage kidney disease that may require a kidney transplant can result from various conditions, including:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage kidney filters over time.
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Increased pressure damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
- Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation and scarring of the kidney’s filtering units.
- Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries reduces blood flow to the kidneys.
- Obesity: Increases the risk of developing kidney disease.
- Aging: Natural decline in kidney function with age.
- Chronic Kidney Infections: Recurrent infections can damage kidney tissue.
- Lupus: An autoimmune disease that can affect the kidneys.
- Kidney Stones: Repeated stone formation can cause scarring and damage.
- Long-term NSAID Use: Prolonged use of drugs like ibuprofen can harm kidney function.
- Chronic Diarrhoea: Leads to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, straining the kidneys.
When the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste effectively, toxins build up in the body, leading to severe illness. In cases of acute kidney failure, dialysis may serve as a temporary solution, but for chronic kidney failure, a transplant offers a more permanent solution.
Kidney Transplant: Possible Side Effects While a kidney transplant is often life-changing, it comes with potential side effects, such as:
- Bleeding: During or after the procedure.
- Blood Clots: May form, increasing the risk of complications.
- Infections: Due to immunosuppressive medications required to prevent organ rejection.
- Weight Gain: As a result of changes in diet and medications.
- High Blood Pressure: Common after kidney transplants.
- Renal Artery Stenosis: Narrowing of the artery supplying blood to the transplanted kidney.
- Organ Rejection: The body’s immune system may attack the new kidney, though immunosuppressants help reduce this risk.
Kidney Transplant Cost in India The cost of a kidney transplant in India can vary depending on several factors, such as the hospital, location, and the patient’s medical condition. Estimated costs include:
- Minimum Cost: Rs. 4,75,000
- Average Cost: Rs. 5,40,000
- Maximum Cost: Rs. 7,30,000
Factors affecting the cost include:
- Admission Fee: Hospitalization charges during the procedure.
- Surgeon’s Fee: Varies based on the surgeon’s expertise.
- Patient’s Age and Condition: Complexity of the procedure.
- Donor Relationship: Living donor transplants may involve additional expenses.
- Room Type: General ward, semi-private, or private rooms.
- Pre-transplant Testing: Lab tests, ECGs, X-rays, and other diagnostics.
Consult Dr. Sandip Bhurke for Kidney Transplant Treatment Dr. Sandip Bhurke is one of South Mumbai’s leading nephrologists and kidney specialists, offering expert guidance and personalized treatment for kidney transplants. With years of experience, Dr. Bhurke provides comprehensive care, ensuring transplant success, minimizing complications, and improving long-term kidney health.
If you are considering a kidney transplant or need professional advice regarding kidney failure, consult Dr. Sandip Bhurke for a tailored treatment plan and expert care.