Kidney Transplant

At its most basic, a Kidney Transplant is a sophisticated surgical procedure that involves the transfer of a functional kidney into the body of a recipient. This new kidney performs the critical function of filtering waste items, poisons, and excess fluids from the blood, which the recipient's kidney does not perform. Kidneys that are deteriorating can no longer function properly and that being said individuals on the verge of renal failure are given a fresh lease on life through this technique.

When is Kidney Transplant required?

Stage 5 of Kidney Disease is referred to as Kidney failure, which occurs when the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) drops below 15. At this point, when the kidneys can no longer adequately sustain life, the options include undergoing dialysis or receiving a kidney transplant. The necessity for a Kidney Transplant is caused by a variety of medical diseases that cause irreversible Kidney impairment. Chronic Kidney disease, which is frequently caused by Diabetes, Hypertension, Polycystic Kidney disease, and Congenital Renal abnormalities, can advance to the point where the kidneys are unable to operate properly. Kidney Transplant becomes an important option to circumvent the restrictions and inconvenience of long-term dialysis treatment.

Both the probable kidney recipient and kidney donor are thoroughly evaluated before the transplantation journey begins. Each transplant centre establishes its own criteria for determining your suitability for a kidney transplant. Nevertheless, there are common elements you can expect across all centres, including:

• Medical and Surgical History Assessment: The transplant team will carefully review your medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, and treatments. They will also inquire about your family's medical history. If any concerns arise, they will be investigated further.
• Physical Examination: Your overall health and fitness for transplant surgery will be evaluated by the transplant team. This examination will encompass a thorough evaluation of your major organs and body systems.
• Psychosocial Evaluation: It  is designed to ensure you are emotionally prepared for the surgery, post-transplant care, and adapting to life with a new kidney. 
• Compatibility Testing: In order to match you with a suitable kidney, the transplant centre will need to determine your blood and tissue type. Blood samples will be taken for the following tests:
• Blood Typing: Ideally, a kidney from a donor with a compatible blood type is preferred. Blood types include A, B, AB, and O. Although transplanting a kidney with an incompatible blood type is possible in some cases, it necessitates additional medical interventions before and after the transplant to reduce the risk of organ rejection—known as ABO incompatible kidney transplants.
• Tissue Typing: This test compares the tissue within your body to that of the potential donor. A good match reduces the likelihood of your body rejecting the donor kidney.
• Crossmatching: Your body produces antibodies that defend against foreign substances like germs or viruses. These antibodies are generated when you experience infections, become pregnant, receive a blood transfusion, or undergo a kidney transplant. To prevent your body from attacking the donor kidney, a crossmatching blood test is conducted before receiving a donor kidney. Ideally, a kidney from a donor whose antibodies you do not already possess is preferred. However, treatments exist to remove antibodies if necessary.
• Blood Tests: Blood examinations are conducted to evaluate the functioning of your heart, kidneys, liver, thyroid, and immune system. Additionally, your blood sugar regulation and electrolyte balance will be assessed. There will also be specialised tests to detect specific viruses (CMU, EBV, hepatitis, and HIV/AIDS).
• Chest X-ray: This procedure is performed to detect infections, lung disorders, or any other irregularities in your lungs. It is also utilised to determine the size of your heart.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of your heart, this test scrutinises your heart's chambers, valves, and pumping efficiency for any indications of issues.
• Electrocardiogram: This examination evaluates your heart's rhythm and detects any potential abnormalities.

The whole process of Kidney Transplantation involves following steps:

• Recipient Selection: Individuals diagnosed with end-stage renal illness who have few options, such as dialysis, and are in otherwise good health, are recommended candidates for kidney transplants.
• Kidney Donor Selection: Living donors undertake comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations to verify their fitness for donation.
• Transplant Surgery: The donor's kidney is implanted in the recipient's lower abdomen, and the blood vessels and ureter are connected. The new kidney begins its life-saving function practically immediately after the treatment is completed. Kidney transplant operation involves following steps:
  • Initially, a cut is made in your lower abdomen, allowing for the placement of the donated kidney. Typically, your existing kidneys are retained in their original positions, unless they're causing issues such as pain or infections.
  • Next, the nearby blood vessels are connected to the blood vessels of the transplanted kidney. This connection ensures that the transplanted kidney receives the necessary blood supply to function effectively.
  • Lastly, the ureter (the tube responsible for transporting urine from the kidney to the bladder) of the donated kidney is joined to your bladder. This connection enables the passage of urine from the new kidney to your bladder.

Although a Kidney Transplant can provide a new lease on life, it is critical to be aware of the following risks:

• Rejection: Rejection occurs when the recipient's immune system recognizes the Transplanted Kidney as alien and launches an immunological response.
• Infection: Immunosuppressive drugs, while effective in preventing rejection, can weaken the immune system, rendering patients more vulnerable to infections.
• Medication Side Effects: Long-term immunosuppressant treatment can result in side effects such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

The post-Transplant period is vital to achieving success:

• Immunosuppressive Medications: It is critical to take these medications on a regular basis to avoid rejection.
• Check-ups: Recipients must return for follow-up appointments to assess renal function and overall health.
• Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle includes eating a well-balanced diet, remaining physically active, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress.

Individuals can enjoy several years of life following a kidney transplant. Typically, a kidney received from a living donor functions for approximately 12 to 20 years, while a kidney from a deceased donor lasts around eight to 12 years. Certain individuals undergo multiple kidney transplants throughout their lives.

Life following a successful Kidney Transplant looks like:

• Dialysis Freedom: Say goodbye to the restraints of frequent dialysis sessions.
• Dietary Flexibility: Eat a more liberal diet than you would if you were on dialysis.
• Improved Energy Levels: Improved kidney function boosts energy levels and general well-being.

According to research, the rates of graft (Transplanted Kidney) survival at one, three, five, and ten years were 92.48%, 85.08%, 79.96%, and 68.15% respectively. Moreover, the rates of patient survival at one, three, five, and ten years were 91.27%, 86.46%, 81.17%, and 78.15% respectively.

When it comes to Kidney Transplant success rates, India is a shining example of medical expertise. The success rates of Kidney Transplants in India have been consistently remarkable, due to developments in surgical methods, post-operative care, and immunosuppressive medicines. The experience of Indian medical specialists, together with the precise matching of donors and recipients, has resulted in extraordinary results in the field of Kidney Transplant.

According to studies, the success rate of Kidney Transplants in India exceeds the global average. The dedication of trained surgeons, well-equipped hospitals, and a strong post-transplant care system all play a role in these encouraging results. The compatibility of donors and recipients, which is thoroughly checked, increases the likelihood of successful transplantation even further.

It's worth noting that individual patient results can be influenced by a variety of factors, including overall health, medication adherence, and post-transplant lifestyle changes. Regular follow-up appointments and following doctor guidelines are critical to maintaining the effectiveness of the transplant process.

When it comes to the cost of Kidney Transplant, there are major differences between countries. When compared to other nations known for their healthcare systems, choosing medical care in India offers significant cost savings:

Domestic Cost Comparison

The cost of Kidney Transplant in India can vary widely depending on factors such as Hospital Infrastructure, Geography, and Surgeon experience. Here's a breakdown of the costs in five major Indian cities:
Complications

• Mumbai  ($ 11,200 -$ 22,400): As a major healthcare city, Mumbai provides Post Procedure a wide choice of Kidney Transplantation possibilities. The higher end of the cost spectrum is influenced by renowned hospitals and qualified medical staff.
• Delhi ( $ 10,500 -$ 21,000): The capital city is home to a number of prestigious facilities that provide kidney transplant services. The price can differ depending on the hospital's repute and location within the city.
• Bangalore  ( $ 9,800 -$ 19,600): Bangalore, known for its superior medical facilities, offers kidney transplant procedures at reasonable prices. Aspects such as hospital repute and surgeon expertise Influence the price range.
• Chennai  ( $ 10,500 - $ 21,000): Chennai has a good medical infrastructure and transplant teams with extensive experience. The cost can vary depending on the hospital's facilities and the case's intricacy.
• Hyderabad  ( $ 9,100 -$ 18,200): Hyderabad, with a growing reputation in medical tourism, offers kidney transplant procedures at a reduced cost. Its appeal is enhanced by skilled medical personnel and high-quality facilities.

It's crucial to remember that these price ranges are estimates and can vary depending on individual situations, hospital preferences, and other considerations including post-operative care and follow-up costs. Patients are encouraged to speak with medical specialists and hospitals directly in order to obtain a more precise estimate tailored to their unique circumstances.

International Cost Comparison

• India (INR 7,00,000 - 15,00,000) (≈ USD 9,800 - 21,000): Known for its cost-effective healthcare solutions, India offers high-quality kidney transplantation procedures at a fraction of the cost of other countries.
• United States (INR 70,00,000 - 1,40,00,000) (≈ USD 98,000 - 1,96,000): The United States has the same modern medical facilities and knowledge as India and these benefits come at a significant cost, often surpassing the budget of many patients.
• United Kingdom (INR 70,00,000) (≈ USD 98,000): The comparable surgery in the UK can cost up to INR 70,00,000 ≈ USD 98,000 or more.
• Canada (INR 65,00,000 - 1,30,00,000) (≈ USD 91,000 - 1,82,000): The system has greater expenses for operations like kidney transplantation.
• Australia (INR 75,00,000 - 1,50,00,000) (≈ USD 1,05,000 - 2,10,000): Known for its good healthcare standards, Australia's kidney transplantation costs are significantly higher than India's. 

While cost comparison is an important part of making an informed decision, When deciding where to have a kidney transplant, patients should consider the hospital's track record, surgeon skill, quality of care, and overall patient experience.

Several variables contribute to the cost differences in kidney transplantation among countries:

• Hospital Infrastructure: Premium hospitals with cutting-edge facilities frequently command greater prices.
• The expertise of the Surgeon: Surgeons with considerable experience and a good reputation may expect greater costs.
• Geographical Location: Prices can vary depending on the city and region of a country.

Diagnostic tests, including blood testing, cross-matching, imaging, and other assessments, are normally priced between INR 75,000 and INR 1,50,000.

When these cost estimates are compared, they highlight India's affordability in the field of healthcare, without sacrificing quality. The potential to receive world-class medical care without breaking the wallet makes India an appealing destination for people seeking kidney transplants.

MedFlick, your trusted healthcare companion, is committed to ensuring the smooth and successful completion of your medical journey.

• Customised Assistance: Individualised guidance throughout your medical journey.
• Expert Network: Access to a large network of prestigious hospitals, top doctors, and experienced surgeons.
• Transparent and Best Pricing: A detailed summary of treatment costs that eliminates surprises and provides pocket-friendly options for you.
• Logistical Support: MedFlick handles everything from travel arrangements to lodging and visa assistance to accommodation.
• Multilingual Support: Transcending language barriers to facilitate effective communication between patients and medical staff.

The road to a successful kidney transplant is a long one, filled with hope, resilience, and the promise of a better future. Navigating this transforming journey becomes a straightforward and empowering task with MedFlick as your steadfast companion.