Understanding Kidney Transplant Procedures: When the Original Kidneys Are Not Removed

Kidney transplantation is a life-changing procedure aimed at providing a new kidney to individuals suffering from kidney failure. During a transplant, the primary aim is to introduce a healthy donor kidney into the patient's body, addressing the failure of one or both kidneys. However, the option of removing the original kidneys is rarely pursued. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why the original kidneys are typically left in place and explore the medical scenarios where their removal might be necessary.

Typical Procedures During a Kidney Transplant

In a kidney transplant, the damaged kidneys are usually not removed unless there are specific medical reasons. Most often, the new kidney is placed in the lower abdomen, where it can function alongside the existing kidneys. These existing kidneys typically remain in place unless they are causing complications such as infection or high blood pressure.

The new kidney is usually positioned in the front, anterior part of the lower abdomen, in the pelvis area. The original kidneys are not often removed unless they are causing severe problems such as uncontrollable high blood pressure, frequent kidney infections, or are significantly enlarged. In these rare instances, the surgeon may choose to remove the diseased kidneys during the transplant surgery.

Conditions Requiring the Removal of Original Kidneys

There are specific conditions that might necessitate the removal of the original kidneys during a kidney transplant:

Recurring Infections: If the diseased kidneys are prone to frequent infections, there is a risk that these infections could spread to the new, transplanted kidney. In such cases, the old kidneys might be removed to prevent complications. Uncontrollable Hypertension: If the original kidneys are causing unmanageable high blood pressure with no pharmacological solution, their removal might be considered to improve the patient's overall health. Enlarged Polycystic Kidneys: If the kidneys are very large and polycystic, their removal might be necessary to ensure there is enough space in the lower abdomen for the new kidney.

The Process of Kidney Transplant Surgery

The kidney transplant involves the placement of a new kidney from a living or deceased donor. The donor kidney is positioned on one side of the abdominal area and is surgically connected to nearby blood vessels and the bladder. Large blood vessels above the groin supply the donor kidney with blood. Once the transplant is complete, the recipient's new kidney will start performing the critical functions that the failing kidneys could not.

Differences in Donors and Their Selection

Kidney transplantation can use kidneys from both living and deceased donors. Living donors do not necessarily have to be blood relatives and can be spouses, co-workers, or close friends. Before donating, potential donors are medically screened to ensure they are a healthy match for the recipient. Similarly, deceased donor kidneys come from individuals who have expressed their desire to be organ donors and whose families have given their consent. All donors are carefully screened to prevent any transmissible diseases throughout the transplantation process.

Choosing a Hospital for Kidney Transplantation

The Max Hospital, located in the heart of India, is renowned for its extensive expertise in kidney transplantation. This state-of-the-art facility ensures that recipients receive the best possible care, with team members guiding them throughout the process, from initial assessment to post-transplant follow-up. If you or a loved one is considering a kidney transplant, The Max Hospital can be your partner in navigating this life-changing journey.