Track 42: Kidney and Pancreas Transplant

Kidney and pancreas transplants are surgical procedures used to replace damaged or failing kidneys and/or pancreas with healthy donor organs. These transplants are often considered for patients with end-stage kidney disease and those with diabetes-related complications. Here’s an overview of each type of transplant:

Kidney Transplant

Indications

•           End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): When the kidneys no longer function adequately to sustain life, often due to chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury.

•           Diabetes: Diabetes can lead to diabetic nephropathy, a condition that damages the kidneys and may require transplantation.

Procedure

•           Donor Kidney: The kidney may come from a living donor (a person who is still alive and has a compatible kidney) or a deceased donor.

•           Surgical Steps: The damaged kidneys are usually not removed; instead, the new kidney is placed in the lower abdomen and connected to the blood vessels and bladder.

•           Immunosuppressive Therapy: After the transplant, patients must take medications to prevent their immune system from rejecting the new kidney.

Benefits

•           Improved Quality of Life: Successful kidney transplants can improve overall health, energy levels, and quality of life compared to dialysis.

•           Extended Life Span: Transplants can extend life expectancy compared to ongoing dialysis.