How do I donate my kidney?

By Dr. Priya Sammani

As a doctor, I regularly receive messages from people asking, “Can I live with one kidney?” or “How do I donate my kidney?” Let me walk you through the process and answer some of these important questions.

Kidney donation is a selfless, life-saving act, and yes, you can live with one kidney. In fact, many people live healthy, full lives after donating. The first successful kidney transplant in Sri Lanka took place in 1985. Since then, over 1,500 transplants have been conducted under strict medical guidelines.

The Transplantation of Human Tissue Act of 1987 governs all transplants in Sri Lanka, ensuring that kidney donations are safe, ethical, and voluntary. All transplants must go through a rigorous process that includes legal checks, medical evaluations, and ethical approvals.

Types of Kidney Donors

There are several categories of kidney donors:

  1. Related Donors: These include immediate family members, like parents or siblings, who often make the best matches for organ donation.
  2. Unrelated Donors: These may include friends, neighbors, or colleagues who want to help a loved one in need.
  3. Paired Exchange: In situations where a donor’s kidney isn’t a match for their loved one, they can exchange donors with another pair to ensure everyone receives a compatible kidney.
  4. Deceased Donors: This occurs when someone decides during their lifetime to donate their organs after they pass away.

The Donation Process

The donation process begins with a thorough evaluation to ensure the donor is healthy enough to undergo surgery and live with one kidney. Here are the key steps:

  • Medical Assessment: Blood tests, kidney function tests, and cross-matching are done to ensure compatibility with the recipient.
  • Counseling: This is a vital step. Counselors and medical professionals ensure that donors are fully informed, mentally sound, and not pressured into donation.
  • Legal Consent: In Sri Lanka, male donors must be 25 years or older, and females must be 30 years or older to donate. Written consent from both the donor and their family is required.
  • Surgical Procedure: The surgery is performed using minimally invasive techniques, with risks like pain, infection, and bleeding being very low.

Can You Live with One Kidney?

Absolutely. Thousands of people around the world live healthy lives with just one kidney. After surgery, donors are monitored closely and typically return to their normal daily activities within weeks.

Long-term risks are minimal, although some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of high blood pressure or proteinuria (protein in the urine). Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider help manage any potential issues.

What Happens After Donation?

After surgery, donors require regular check-ups to ensure their remaining kidney is functioning well. Unfortunately, many donors don’t return for follow-up care due to logistical or financial issues. However, consistent monitoring is crucial for long-term health. In response to this, Sri Lanka is working to create a national donor evaluation database to provide better post-surgical care.

The Risks Involved in Donation

While kidney donation is generally safe, there are risks involved, such as surgical complications like infection or bleeding. Long-term complications like hypertension or preeclampsia (for women) are rare but can occur. Donors are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle and monitor their health regularly.

The Importance of Psychological Evaluation

Before donating, a psychological evaluation ensures that the donor is mentally prepared for the process. This evaluation checks for soundness of mind and ensures that donors are not acting under pressure. While psychological assessments were not initially part of the protocol in Sri Lanka, they are now mandatory to ensure the mental well-being of the donor.

Final Thoughts

Kidney donation is a noble act that can save lives, but it’s important to be fully informed before making this decision. It’s not just about helping someone else; it’s about ensuring that your health remains optimal after donation. If you or someone you know is considering kidney donation, seek guidance from medical professionals to understand the process thoroughly.

For more detailed information and to register as a kidney donor in Sri Lanka, visit ODTF Sri Lanka.

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