A kidney transplant is a life-changing procedure for patients who are suffering from irreparable end-stage kidney disease.

Eliminating the need for dialysis, a kidney transplant acts as a lifeline for patients with failed kidneys. Transplants not only help them regain their life but also help in maintaining a healthy routine.

A transplant can be scary, but knowing the entire procedure, risks, success rates, and post-recovery helps you make the right decision. 

Read on, as we uncover the success rates, risks associated with kidney transplant, rejection, symptoms, and the factors influencing better outcomes.

What is the success rate of a kidney transplant in India?

The kidney transplant success rates have tremendously increased in India over the years. The advancements in medical technology, surgical accuracy, immunosuppressive medications, and better follow-up care have made a significant impact on the survival of grafts

According to the Indian Society of Nephrology’s report in 2023:

• 90-95% is the 1-year survival rate of the graft of kidney transplant patients in India

• The 5-year survival rate is about 80%, and this depends on the donor type, the patient’s overall health, and postoperative care.

• Over 9000 kidney transplants were performed in India in 2023, in major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Delhi. 

Success Rates: Living Donor vs Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant

 

What are the Risks Associated with Kidney Transplants?

Kidney transplants have great success rates, but they also bear risks like any major surgery.  You must be aware of the potential risks to make an informed decision. Understanding these risks can help you prepare for the coming stages.

Here are some potential risks of a kidney transplant:

Surgical Risks

• Infection

Infections in the surgical area or urinary tract infections after the surgery can cause problems with healing.

• Blood clots

Blood clots can affect proper blood flow to the new kidney (In rare cases only).

Medical Risks

• Organ Rejection

The body’s immune system may attack the new kidney. This requires aggressive immunosuppression medication.

• Side effects of immunosuppressants

Might include:
Weight gain
Diabetes
Bone loss
Increased risk of infections

• Delayed function

In some cases, the new kidney might take longer to start functioning and producing urine. In such cases, temporary dialysis is required.

Psychological and Lifestyle Risks

• Emotional Stress

Patients are often found anxious and terrified about possible rejection or side effects.

• Medication Adherence Problems

The long-term success depends on how the patient follows all the medication and lifestyle guidelines prescribed by the doctors. Only when they follow all guidelines strictly can they have a high success rate.

What is Kidney Rejection, and What are the Symptoms?

Kidney rejection happens when the patient’s immune system declares the new graft (transplanted kidney) as a foreign body and attacks it.

Rejections can be:

• Hyperacute

This happens within a few minutes or hours of the transplant.

• Acute

Within the first 3-6 months of transplant, with regular monitoring, the experts will be able to detect it early.

• Chronic

This is developed over the years after the transplant

A Few Common Symptoms of Kidney Rejection are:

• Sudden weight gain

• Swelling

• Reduced urine output

• Fever

• Flu-like symptoms

• Pain or tenderness near the transplant area

• High blood pressure

• Elevated creatinine levels were detected during regular monitoring.

Note: Not always does a kidney rejection show symptoms, especially in the early stages. Routine follow-up tests are very important to detect rejection.

Factors Affecting the Success Rate of a Kidney Transplant

There are various factors influencing the success rates of a kidney transplant, Such as:

Donor Type

• Living donor transplants have better matches and better outcomes

• The quality of deceased donor organs may vary based on the donor’s age, health and ischemia levels

Recipient’s Age and Health

• Younger and healthier patients tend to get better results, and their post-transplant life is usually smooth.

• Pre-existing conditions like diabetes, obesity, or heart disease can lower the success.

Immunological Compatibility

• ABO blood group match and HLA compatibility are important

• Pre-sensitisation affects the surgical outcomes

Adherence to Medication

• Missing immunosuppressants can trigger rejection. (even a single dose)

Follow-up Care

Regular blood tests, monitoring, and early intervention can significantly improve long-term survival.

Why Choose NU Hospitals for Kidney Transplants?

• No. 1 Hospital for Kidney Transplants In India and Bangalore
• Pioneers in Kidney Transplant Surgery
• Legacy of Innovation and Trusted by Millions
• Protocolized Evidence-based Care
• Renowned Team of Experts with a Multi-Disciplinary Approach
• Exceptional Care and World-class Technology