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Definition
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure to place a healthy kidney from a donor into a person with kidney failure.
Expanded Explanation
A renal transplant offers patients with chronic kidney disease a chance at improved quality of life. This procedure is often the best treatment for advanced kidney failure, outperforming dialysis. Thus, understanding its nuances is crucial for both patients and medical professionals.
Importance
Transplantation is vital because it extends the lives of individuals with end-stage renal disease. Moreover, it often enhances life quality more than dialysis, allowing for a less restricted lifestyle.
Context and Usage
Surgeons perform the operation in a hospital setting, and recipients undergo extensive evaluation to ensure compatibility. Post-surgery, patients must take immunosuppressants to prevent organ rejection.
Examples
- Example 1: A person with hereditary polycystic kidney disease may receive a transplant once their kidney function drops below a critical threshold.
- Example 2: An individual involved in a severe accident resulting in renal failure may be a candidate for a renal graft, another term for this surgery.
Understanding the Glossary Term
Common misconceptions include the belief that transplant recipients can immediately return to normal life; in reality, recovery takes time and monitoring. Additionally, the risk of rejection never fully disappears.
Related Glossary Terms
- Kidney Function – Kidney function measures how well kidneys clean blood, regulate electrolytes, and manage fluid balance. Poor function can lead to toxin buildup, requiring treatment like dialysis or a kidney transplant.
- Osmoregulation – Is the body’s regulation of water and salt balance, crucial for homeostasis, primarily executed by the kidneys. When kidneys fail at this task, a kidney transplant becomes essential to restore this critical function.
Visual and Reading Aids
External Resources
- Kidney Foundation of Canada provides comprehensive guides on kidney transplants, including preparation and recovery. Their resources are invaluable for patients and caregivers alike.
- The American Society of Transplantation offers extensive educational materials and community support for transplant recipients, donors, and their families.
Related Articles
- Kidney Failure Treatment Without Dialysis: The Ultimate Guide: This blog post explores alternative medical interventions and lifestyle adjustments for managing kidney failure without relying on dialysis.
- Unlock Your Body’s Secrets: Normal GFR by Age and Gender Explained: Delves into understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) levels, a key factor in determining kidney health and the potential necessity for a kidney transplant.
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