Kidney Transplantation Support
What Is a Kidney Transplant and When Is It Needed?
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor is placed into a patient with end-stage kidney disease (ESRD). This condition occurs when the kidneys lose around 90% of their function, and waste products accumulate dangerously in the body.
Medical professionals typically recommend transplantation when dialysis is no longer a sustainable long-term solution. Conditions that may lead to ESRD include:
Diabetes-related kidney damage
Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension)
Polycystic kidney disease
Chronic glomerulonephritis
ComeHeal helps coordinate your access to evaluation and treatment options by forwarding your medical documents to contracted healthcare institutions for review by authorized transplant teams.
Risks and Considerations in Kidney Transplantation
Like all major surgeries, kidney transplantation carries certain risks, which may include:
Blood clots or bleeding
Urinary complications at the transplant site
Infections
Immune rejection of the donor organ
Transmission of undetected diseases from donor tissue
Rare but serious complications such as heart attack or stroke
Patients are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals to fully understand these risks and assess individual suitability for the procedure.
Understanding Post-Transplant Medication
After a kidney transplant, patients usually require immunosuppressive medications to help prevent rejection. These medications can be effective, but they may also cause side effects such as:
Bone thinning
Elevated blood sugar or cholesterol
Increased susceptibility to infections
Weight gain or fluid retention
Physical changes like increased hair growth
The precise medication plan and monitoring are determined entirely by the transplant center’s medical team.
Choosing a Transplant Center
When a kidney transplant is recommended, patients are often referred to or must select a transplant center. Factors commonly considered include:
Volume of procedures performed annually
Patient success and survival rates
Living donor and paired-donation program availability
Language and translation support for international patients
Accommodation services and insurance compatibility
ComeHeal assists by facilitating communication and helping patients compare contracted institutions based on their individual needs.
Living Donor and Paired Donation Programs
In some cases, a relative or friend may serve as a living kidney donor. If donor compatibility is an issue, paired donation programs may allow donor-recipient pairs to match with others, increasing the chance of a successful transplant. We help guide you through understanding these programs offered by our contracted medical centers.
Staying Healthy Before and After Transplantation
Maintaining overall health before and after a transplant is crucial. Common recommendations shared by transplant centers include:
Taking prescribed medications consistently
Following dietary and activity plans
Avoiding tobacco use
Attending all medical appointments
Staying socially active and mentally engaged
Patients should follow individualized medical guidance provided by their treatment team.
Surgical Process Overview
Kidney transplant procedures are performed under general anesthesia. The new kidney is placed in the lower abdomen and connected to major blood vessels and the bladder. Typically, non-functioning kidneys are left in place unless they pose health risks.
Hospital stays often last around a week, and full recovery usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. During this period, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and attend scheduled check-ups.
Our Role in Your Journey
ComeHeal is not a hospital or medical clinic. We do not perform or decide on treatments. Instead, we coordinate access to internationally accredited transplant centers, assist with pre-travel preparation, facilitate communication, and ensure patients feel informed and supported throughout their medical journey.
From document collection and evaluation to logistical support before and after treatment, we are here to help you navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind.
