Renal Transplant

A renal transplant, or kidney transplant, is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney is transplanted into a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) to restore kidney function. This life-changing procedure can significantly improve the quality of life and longevity for patients experiencing kidney failure. At Revere Health, we collaborate closely with transplant centers to provide pre- and post-transplant care, guiding patients through every step of the process to ensure the best possible outcomes.

What Is a Renal Transplant?
A renal transplant involves placing a healthy kidney from a donor—either living or deceased—into a patient whose kidneys are no longer functioning properly. The new kidney takes over the job of filtering blood and removing waste, which is critical for maintaining overall health. While dialysis is a temporary solution for kidney failure, a successful transplant offers a long-term, more comprehensive treatment option.

Who Needs a Kidney Transplant?
Renal transplants are typically recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease, which is the final stage of chronic kidney disease. ESRD occurs when the kidneys lose 90% or more of their function, making it impossible for them to filter waste and fluids effectively. The most common causes of ESRD include:

Diabetes
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Chronic Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units)
Polycystic Kidney Disease (genetic disorder causing fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys)
If left untreated, ESRD can be life-threatening. For patients eligible for transplant, receiving a new kidney can eliminate the need for dialysis, improve energy levels, and offer a better overall quality of life.

The Kidney Transplant Process
The renal transplant journey involves several stages, each crucial for a successful outcome:

Evaluation: A thorough health evaluation determines if a patient is a good candidate for transplant. This includes blood tests, imaging studies, and assessments of overall health and compatibility with potential donors.
Donor Matching: The patient is placed on a transplant waiting list if a deceased donor kidney is needed. If a living donor is available, further compatibility testing is conducted.
Surgery: The transplant surgery typically lasts 2 to 4 hours. The surgeon places the new kidney in the lower abdomen and connects it to nearby blood vessels and the bladder. In most cases, the non-functioning kidneys are left in place unless they pose a health risk.
Recovery and Follow-Up: Post-transplant, patients receive lifelong immunosuppressive medications to prevent organ rejection and regular follow-up care to monitor kidney function.
Post-Transplant Care
After a kidney transplant, ongoing medical care is essential to ensure the new organ remains healthy. Revere Health offers comprehensive post-transplant care that includes:

Medication Management: Monitoring and adjusting immunosuppressive medications to minimize the risk of rejection.
Routine Lab Tests: Regular blood tests to check kidney function and detect any early signs of complications.
Lifestyle and Nutrition Counseling: Guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support kidney health and prevent other health issues.
Why Choose Revere Health?
At Revere Health, we are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care throughout your transplant journey. Our team works closely with transplant centers, nephrologists, and other specialists to offer seamless coordination of care. From pre-transplant evaluations to long-term post-transplant support, we strive to ensure that each patient receives the highest level of care and support.

If you or a loved one is considering a kidney transplant, contact Revere Health today to learn more about our renal transplant services and how we can help you achieve better health and a renewed quality of life.