An overview of Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant
A deceased-donor kidney transplant is a series of evaluations and assessments performed on a potential recipient to determine their suitability for receiving a kidney transplant from a deceased donor. These tests are conducted to ensure that the transplanted kidney will be accepted by the recipient's body and function properly. The tests typically include blood and tissue typing, blood tests to check the recipient's immune system, urine tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasounds or CT scans. Additionally, recipients must undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess their overall health and determine if they are a suitable candidate for transplantation. These tests are essential in matching the right kidney to the right recipient to increase the chances of a successful transplant and minimize the risk of rejection.
What is Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant used for?
A deceased donor kidney transplant is used for people with end-stage kidney disease or kidney failure. The transplant helps to remove waste from the bloodstream, improving quality of life and reducing the risk of death compared to a lifetime on dialysis. When a compatible living donor isn't available, individuals are placed on a national waiting list to receive a kidney from a deceased donor. The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) maintains the waiting list, and the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) administers it. Matching factors include blood and tissue type compatibility, waiting list duration, and health checkups to ensure candidates remain suitable for transplantation.
How to prepare for Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant?
When a compatible deceased-donor kidney becomes available, the recipient will be notified by their transplant center and must be ready for the final transplant evaluation. Periodic health checkups will be conducted while the candidate is on the waiting list to ensure they remain a suitable candidate for transplantation. It is advisable to follow the instructions provided by your transplant center regarding any specific preparations needed for the final transplant evaluation.
How are Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant results reported?
Deceased-donor kidney transplant results, including blood and tissue type matching, are reported by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). These organizations maintain a national waiting list for deceased-donor organ transplants and match available organs with suitable candidates based on various factors, including compatibility and waiting time. Recipients are notified by their transplant center when a compatible kidney becomes available, and they will then undergo a final transplant evaluation to determine if the surgery can proceed.