Kidney Transplant Surgery

Introduction

The Nephrology and Urology Departments at Holy Spirit Hospital are recognized for housing one of the largest dialysis units in Mumbai and for offering a robust and evolving renal transplant program, successfully performing both living donor and cadaveric (deceased donor) kidney transplants.

As a trusted name in kidney care, Holy Spirit Hospital follows strict infection control practices, customized immunosuppressive protocols, and maintains proactive monitoring for any complications — ensuring prompt and effective management. Our multidisciplinary Transplant Unit takes a holistic approach, not only addressing the medical needs of the patient but also offering support to their families through every step of the transplant journey.

Understanding Kidney Disease

What is Kidney Injury or Kidney Failure?

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): A sudden loss of kidney function, often reversible if treated promptly.

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A gradual and irreversible decline in kidney function over months or years, leading to long-term health complications.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

CKD is identified by a persistent abnormality in kidney function (e.g., reduced filtration rate or presence of protein in urine) lasting for three months or longer.
Common causes include:

• Diabetes Mellitus

• Hypertension

• Congenital abnormalities

• Inherited conditions

• Recurrent urinary infections or obstruction

What is End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD)?

This is the final stage of chronic kidney disease when kidneys have lost nearly all their functional capacity. Patients require lifelong dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival. On imaging, kidneys appear small and shrunken.

Warning Signs of Kidney Disease

• Swelling around the eyes, hands, or feet

• Frequent urination, especially at night

• Painful or difficult urination

• Blood or protein in the urine

• High blood pressure

• Elevated BUN and Creatinine levels in blood tests

Treatment Options for ESKD

1. Lifelong Dialysis (Hemodialysis or Peritoneal Dialysis)

2. Kidney Transplantation (Preferred treatment option)

Why is Kidney Transplantation the Best Option?

• More cost-effective over the long term

• Enables a better quality of life and independence

• Offers improved survival rates compared to dialysis

Eligibility for Transplantation

Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease are evaluated for transplant suitability.
Not eligible:

• Patients with active infections or cancer
  Special assessments are required for:

• Older adults

• Patients with severe cardiac, liver, or pulmonary disease

• HIV-positive individuals

• Patients with psychiatric illness

Sources of Donor Kidneys

Living Donors

According to Indian law, the following close relatives can donate a kidney:

• Parents, siblings, spouse, children, grandparents

In some cases, paired kidney exchanges (swap transplants) may be done when direct donation isn’t feasible due to blood group mismatch.

Living donors undergo thorough medical and psychological evaluations. They must:

• Be above 18 years of age

• Be in good health

• Be free of uncontrolled chronic illnesses, infections, or major organ diseases

Deceased Donors (Cadaveric Transplant)

• Donors are individuals who are declared brain-dead

• With family consent, organs can be retrieved for transplant

• Registration with ZTCC (Zonal Transplant Coordination Committee) is required for cadaveric donation

Hospital Stay & Recovery

• Donor: Admitted 1 day prior; hospital stay typically 5–7 days

• Recipient: Admitted 2 days prior; hospital stay typically 7–10 days

Success Rates

• Living Donor Transplants: 90–95% success rate in the first year

• Deceased Donor Transplants: 85–90% success rate in the first year

• Long-term survival and quality of life are significantly improved

Why Choose Holy Spirit Hospital for Kidney Transplantation?

At Holy Spirit Hospital, we bring together medical excellence and compassionate care. Our Kidney Transplant Unit is known for:

• One of the largest dialysis setups in the city

• Proven track record in both living and cadaveric kidney transplants

• State-of-the-art operation theatres and infection control standards

• Individualized immunosuppression and post-transplant care protocols

• Seamless coordination among nephrologists, transplant surgeons, transplant coordinator, and nursing staff

• Holistic support for patients and families throughout the transplant process

Advanced Transplant Services Include:

• Living Donor Kidney Transplants

• Deceased Donor (Cadaver) Kidney Transplants

• ABO-Incompatible Transplants

• Paired Kidney Exchange Programs (Swap Transplants)