Some kidney failure patients need to undergo a kidney transplant. How long does a kidney transplant take? How long does the recovery period take? Find out the answers in this article.
How long does a kidney transplant take?
Kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney taken from a living or deceased donor is transplanted to a person whose kidneys are not functioning properly. How long does a kidney transplant take?
In fact, this question can be answered by the fact that the kidney transplant takes about 2-3 hours, during which the doctor completely anesthetizes the patient Then he makes an incision in the lower part of one side of the abdomen, and places the new kidney in the body.
The doctor usually leaves the patient''s kidneys in place unless they cause complications, such as: high blood pressure or kidney stones. The doctor places the healthy kidney in the lower abdomen directly above the thigh, then the blood vessels of the serious kidney are connected to the blood vessels in the lower part of the abdomen, above One leg straight, and the ureter of the new kidney is connected directly to the bladder.
When is a kidney transplant required?
In fact, a kidney transplant is required for patients with renal failure in its final stages, and the patient undergoes dialysis or chronic kidney patients in the late stages, and the need for dialysis is approaching.
This process is a better option compared to the need for lifelong dialysis, as it helps in improving the patient’s quality of life, reducing the risk of death, lower treatment costs, and fewer dietary restrictions.
How long does recovery take after a kidney transplant?
After clarifying the answer to the question "How long does a kidney transplant take?" You must be wondering “How long does it take to recover after surgery?”
In fact, after a kidney transplant, the patient stays in the hospital for a period ranging from several days to a week, for doctors to monitor any signs of complications. In general, most patients need about 6 weeks for the wound to heal and they should avoid lifting heavy objects or exercising during it.
Also, most patients need about 8 weeks after the operation to return to work and practice their usual activities.
What are the complications of a kidney transplant?
In fact, this surgery involves a number of complications, the most prominent of which are:
blood clot or bleeding
infection.
Leakage or obstruction of the tube connecting the kidneys to the bladder.
Operation failed.
Death, heart attack or stroke.
This operation is also associated with a set of risks resulting from taking anti-rejection medications prescribed by the doctor after the operation to prevent the body from rejecting the donated kidney, the most prominent of which are:
osteoporosis
diabetic.
High blood pressure and cholesterol.
Excessive hair growth or loss.
Advice during the recovery period from a kidney transplant
After undergoing a kidney transplant, you need to follow the following tips during the recovery period:
Get enough rest and sleep.
Try to walk daily and increase walking gradually.
Avoid exercises that strain the abdominal muscles or activities that require effort, such as cycling and heavy lifting, for 4-6 weeks.
Place a pillow over the wound when breathing deeply or coughing.
Do breathing exercises at home as instructed by your doctor.
Avoid showering for the first two weeks or until your doctor allows it.
A diet for the kidneys.
Drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Washing the wound area daily with soap and water and patting it dry. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol as it slows healing.
