Can I donate a kidney? Let's talk about this surgery (Kidney Donation Surgery)

Donating an organ to save someone's life is a very noble and big decision. Especially for someone who has kidney failure and has to undergo dialysis for the rest of their life, donating a healthy kidney is like giving that person a new life. So if you are thinking of donating a kidney, this article will be very important for you. Let's talk about everything in a simple and friendly way.

What is kidney donation and transplantation?

Simply put, a kidney donation surgery involves taking one of the two healthy kidneys from a donor, someone like you, and transplanting it into the body of someone whose kidneys are failing. The new kidney then takes over the function of the patient's two non-functioning kidneys, which is to filter waste from the body.

You may be wondering how successful these surgeries are. In fact, the success rate of kidney transplant surgeries is very high . A kidney taken from a living donor is 97% successful after one year. Even after five years, the success rate is as high as 86%. The success rate of a kidney taken from a deceased donor is slightly lower.

How long does a transplanted kidney last? It usually works well for between 8 and 20 years. This depends on the health of the recipient and the type of kidney they receive. Some studies have shown that if a kidney is transplanted before dialysis begins, people are more likely to live longer with that kidney. This is because dialysis is a relatively stressful process on the body.

How to prepare for surgery?

Donating a kidney is not a decision that can be made overnight. It is a well-thought-out, informed decision.

First, make a decision.

You need to understand the pros, cons, risks, and the entire process of this surgery. Talk to your family and close friends about it. Also, talk to your doctor to get all the information you need. Every transplant center has a special officer who advises donors. It is also very important to talk to him.

Qualifications required to donate a kidney

To donate a kidney, you must meet these qualifications:

• Must be over 18 years of age. There is no maximum age limit, and healthy people over 70 can also donate kidneys.
• You have two healthy kidneys.There must be.
• You must be in good health and free from serious diseases such as high blood pressure , diabetes mellitus , and cancer .
• There are no risk factors for heart disease.
• You need to prove that this is not something you do for money, but something you do with your full willingness .
• You must be prepared to undergo a complete physical and mental examination.

How the surgery is performed

Most kidney donation surgeries are now performed using minimally invasive techniques. This means that the surgery is performed through several small incisions, rather than one large incision. This results in less recovery time and less pain. The surgery usually takes about 3-4 hours. You will be put under general anesthesia, so you will not feel anything during the surgery.

There are two main types of surgery. Let's look at the differences between the two.

But not everyone can have laparoscopic surgery. If you have had previous abdominal surgery, or if your body position is not suitable for it, you may need to have open surgery. Sometimes, even during surgery, you may be switched from laparoscopic to open surgery. This is all for your safety.

Recovery time after surgery

After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room. When you regain consciousness, you will notice that you have a catheter and more than one IV line in your arm. The catheter is placed so that you can urinate easily without getting out of bed.

• First days: Once you regain full consciousness, you can gradually start drinking water. If you are not nauseous, start with liquids and eat normally within a day or two.
• Pain: Not everyone experiences pain the same way. However, it is normal to have some pain after surgery. You will be given painkillers through an IV and as pills to take afterwards. The pain will subside over time.
• Discharge from the hospital: You can usually go home in 2-5 days. Even after you go home, you may have some discomfort and pain for a week or two. The doctor will give you painkillers for that too.
• Complete recovery: It may take about 6-8 weeks to fully recover. During this time, do not lift anything heavier than 5 kg (e.g. a bucket of water, a gas cylinder). If you feel drowsy after taking painkillers, avoid driving.

What are the risks of kidney donation?

Like any major surgery, kidney donation surgery carries some risks, but the likelihood of these occurring is very low.

• Infections: If an infection occurs at the surgical site or in the urinary tract, it is treated with antibiotics.
• Pneumonia: Deep breathing exercises and coughing after surgery can reduce this risk.
• Blood clots: Walking as soon as possible after surgery can reduce this risk.
• Other rare risks: Very rare cases of allergic reaction to anesthesia, minor lung damage, and nerve damage can occur. The surgical team is prepared for any of these.

Donating a kidney does not shorten your lifespan. Some studies have shown that donors' lifespans may be shortened by as little as 6 months compared to the general population. There may also be a slight increase in the risk of proteinuria and high blood pressure. This is why annual medical checkups are essential.

Life after giving birth

After donating a kidney, you can live a normal, healthy life. The remaining kidney in your body will grow slightly larger and begin to take on the functions of the removed kidney.

• Sports: It is best to avoid contact sports like rugby, football, and boxing. If you do play such sports, you can wear a padded vest to protect your kidneys. Talk to your doctor about it.
• Pregnancy: Yes, you can get pregnant. But you need to wait at least 6 months after the surgery. During pregnancy, the risk of developing conditions such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia may slightly increase. Therefore, you need to work closely with your gynecologist and the kidney transplant team.
• Mental health: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Some people may experience anxiety or depression after this major procedure. If you are feeling this way, talk to the transplant center social worker, counselor, or your medical team. It is very common.

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