Kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy donor kidney is grafted into an individual whose kidneys do not work. Surgery remains the optimal method of treatment of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or chronic renal failure since it enhances the quality of life and survival following prolonged dialysis.

Donor kidneys may be from living donors, usually a relative or friend, or cadaver as living donor kidneys have better survival and outcomes. Kidney which is transplanted is placed in lower abdominal cavity and anastomosed to vessels and the bladder, and the patient's native kidneys are not manipulated unless diseased.

Kidney transplant patients need to be on immunosuppressive medication for the rest of their lives so that the body will not reject the transplanted organ. Although risky with potential for infection, rejection, and drug toxicity, it is a bonus not having to remain on dialysis and enjoying a more normal life.

Successful kidney transplantation relies on careful donor and recipient evaluation and post-transplant follow-up to observe kidney function and manage possible complications. Advances in transplant surgery, immunosuppression, and donor matching have all contributed to better transplant outcomes over the decades.