Donors of a kidney undergo medical examination to evaluate their suitability for any kidney donation. Blood tests of both the donor as well as the recipient are performed. Blood is checked to determine matches of blood and tissue types. A PRA i.e. panel of reactive antibody is performed to determine the risk whether the recipient antibodies may have a negative reaction to the living donor antigens.
If any reaction occurs, treatment procedures can reduce reactivity. A urine test is performed to evaluate the kidney functioning of the donor. On confirmation of the compatibility of the recipient with the living donor, a kidney transplant is performed. Psychological evaluation may be done to ensure both the donor and recipient are prepared for the transplant and aftercare.
Kidney Donation Risk
As some risk is associated with any transplant surgery, there is risk associated with kidney transplant also. Risk exists for both the recipient and the living donor during and after the kidney transplant. Risk common to a kidney transplant includes infection and bleeding.
Some associated risks are:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Rejection
- Urine leakage
- Reaction to medication
Obstruction in the flow of urine and flow of blood can also be a risk if donation of kidney is not successful. This risk is present in up to 20 percent of patients. Leakage of urine outside the bladder is a less common risk that occurs in 3 percent of patients.
Risk of rejection episodes is high during the first week following the kidney transplant. Rejection is treated through immunosuppressant drugs. Dialysis may be required if rejection episodes continue for longer. Another transplant surgery may be required in extreme cases. Success of a transplant depends upon the match of donor and recipient.
Transplant Aftercare
Patients of kidney transplant may need to remain in the hospital for five days. The donor as well as the recipient may experience discomfort in the incision area after the surgery. Patients are administered pain relievers after the transplant surgery. Immunosuppressive drugs are also prescribed.
Intravenous antibodies may also be administered. After recovery, patients need to take care of the incision site to prevent infection. Studies show that donors usually do not have long-term complications. The remaining kidney of the donor starts functioning to compensate for the donated organ.
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