What if the kidney transplantation is not working?
Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure in which one or both diseased or dysfunctional kidneys are replaced by healthy kidneys from a donor.
Generally, kidney transplantation is a successful procedure. Although, sometimes the transplanted kidney does not function as expected. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Rejection: This is the most common cause of transplant failure. Rejection occurs when the recipient's immune system attacks the transplanted kidney, recognizing it as foreign tissue. Rejection can be acute, which occurs shortly after transplantation, or chronic, which occurs over a longer period.
- Vascular problems: These can occur during the transplant surgery or may develop later. Blood clots, narrowing of the arteries or veins, or leaks in the blood vessels can all affect the function of the transplanted kidney.
- Infection: Infection of the transplanted kidney can damage the tissue and lead to failure. Infections can come from the donor, the recipient, or from the environment.
- Urinary tract problems: Blockages or narrowing of the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder) can prevent the transplanted kidney from draining urine properly. This can lead to back pressure on the kidney and damage the tissue.
- Calcineurin inhibitor toxicity: Calcineurin inhibitors are medications that are used to suppress the immune system and prevent rejection. These drugs can have side effects, including damage to the transplanted kidney.
If the kidney transplantation is not working, the patient may experience symptoms such as:
- Decreased urine output
- Swelling in the hands, feet, ankles, or legs
- High blood pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Confusion
If any of these symptoms occur, the patient should contact their doctor immediately.
Treatment for a failed kidney transplantation may include medications, surgery, or dialysis. Medications can be used to suppress the immune system or treat infection. Surgery may be necessary to correct vascular problems or urinary tract problems. Dialysis is a procedure that filters waste products from the blood when the kidneys are not functioning properly.
Despite the potential for complications, kidney transplantation is a life-saving procedure for people with end-stage renal disease. With proper medical care, most kidney transplant recipients can live long and healthy lives.