Even though kidney transplant is a very successful and life-saving therapy, as being any serious procedure, it has a minute risk and complications for the recipient and donor. It is ensured by us at Tender Palm Super Specialty Hospital that appropriate information about such potential risks is brought to the notice of patients in a very clear manner so that they can make decisions appropriately. Our medical team of professionals takes all measures to prevent such risks and conduct a successful and safe transplant.

Risks for Kidney Transplant Recipients

Organ Rejection

The immune system of the recipient may recognize the new kidney as foreign and try to reject it.

1. Types of rejection:-
   • Hyperacute Rejection - Immediately after surgery (rare).
   • Acute Rejection - May occur within a few months after transplant.
   • Chronic Rejection - Gradual deterioration of kidney function over many years.
2. Prevention - Periodic maintenance of immunosuppressive drugs to prevent the risk of rejection.

Infections

Owing to the immunosuppressive drug, the immunity of the body is compromised and the patient may contract infections.

1. Some of the common infections are:-
   • Urinary tract infection (UTI)
   • Lung or chest infection
   • Viral infections (CMV, Herpes, etc.)
2. Prevention - Proper hygienic precautions, vigilant monitoring, and administration of preventive drugs.

Side Effects of Immunosuppressive Drugs

Immunosuppressive medications must be used to prevent organ rejection, but they may yet cause some side effects like:-

• Infection risk
• Hypertension
• Weight gain
• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
• Treatment - Regular follow-ups, lifestyle change, and proper drug control.

Delayed Graft Function (DGF)

1. In some instances, the new kidney of the recipient takes time to acclimatize to work normally and thus needs temporary dialysis.
2. Etiology:
   • Underlying illnesses.
   • Surgical complications of the transplant.
3. Resolution - The new kidney generally begins to work within days or weeks with appropriate care.

Blood Clots or Bleeding

• A few patients may sometimes develop blood clots or profuse bleeding after surgery.
• Management - Close monitoring, anticoagulants (if necessary), and careful surgery.

Recurrence of Kidney Disease

• In the very unlikely event that the donor's initial kidney disease recurs in the transplanted kidney in the future.
• Prevention - Routine follow-up, customized medication and follow-up

Risks to the Kidney Donor

Surgical Risks

1. As with any serious surgery, kidney donation too poses risks of:-
   • Bleeding during or after surgery.
   • Surgical wound infection.
   • Blood clots.
2. Prevention - Laparoscopic least invasive surgery to eliminate such risks.

Reduced Kidney Function

1. Donors are left with only one functioning kidney after donation. Though it s usually adequate, there is a slightly greater risk of:-
   • Increased blood pressure.
   • Proteinuria.
   • Reduced kidney function with age.
2. Prevention - Regular health check-ups, proper diet, and healthy living.

Psychological Impact

1. Certain donors become emotionally traumatized after the donation for certain reasons such as:
   • Concern for themselves.
   • Concern for the recipient.
2. Support - Tender Palm Hospital offers psychological counseling to help donors recover.

Long-Term Complications

The donor and recipient can have long-term complications, such as:-

High Blood Pressure

• Kidney donors and recipients can develop high blood pressure in the long run.
• Prevention - Follow-up, drug treatment, and lifestyle change.

Weight Gain or Diabetes

• Weight gain or diabetes can be caused by immunosuppressive drugs in some transplant recipients.
• Management - Adjustment of drugs, exercise, and food habits.

Cancer Risk in Recipients

1. Use of immunosuppressive medications for extended periods of time may increase the risk moderately for:
   • Skin cancer.
   • Lymphoma.
2. Prevention - Cancer screening to detect it early, protection from the sun with the help of sunscreen, and periodic health check-ups.

Mitigating Risks at Tender Palm Super Specialty Hospital

At Tender Palm Super Specialty Hospital, our best medical practices help us prevent such risks by:-

• Advanced surgical techniques decreasing complications in surgeries.
• Tailor-made immunosuppressive treatment to prevent organ rejection.
• Strict infection control practices.
• Regular post-transplant follow-up to identify and treat complications at an early stage.
• 24/7 emergency services to treat any unforeseen health complications.

Conclusion

Although kidney transplant carries risks and complications, selecting a skilled and specialized hospital such as Tender Palm Super Specialty Hospital minimizes the risks to a great extent and maximizes the success rate of the transplant. With our committed team of transplant specialists, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and follow-up after transplant for life, receivers and donors lead a healthy and prosperous life post-transplant.

To seek an expert consultation

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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