What are the different types of kidney transplants?

We offer many types of transplants at Kidney Transplants. The options for kidney transplant include deceased donor and living-donor kidney transplants.

What is a Deceased-donor kidney transplant?

Deceased-Donor Kidney Transplant

• Kidneys come from closely screened, deceased donors to ensure the kidney is suitable for transplant.
• Because people undergoing a deceased-donor transplant are on a waitlist for a kidney donor, it’s unknown when the transplant will occur.

What is a Living-donor kidney transplant?

Living-Donor Kidney Transplant

• A healthy person — often a blood relative, close friend, or a stranger (altruistic donor) — provides a kidney. In some cases, donors who meet eligibility requirements can take part in a kidney exchange.
• We can schedule living-donor transplant surgery to allow time for both the patient and donor to plan and prepare.

What is a Pre-emptive kidney transplant?

• Getting a transplant before you need to start dialysis is called a preemptive transplant.  It allows you to avoid dialysis altogether.  Getting a transplant not long after kidneys fail (but with some time on dialysis) is referred to as an early transplant. Both have benefits.  Some research shows that a pre-emptive or early transplant, with little or no time spent on dialysis, can lead to better long-term health.  It may also allow you to keep working, save time and money, and have a better quality of life.  

How does the evaluation process work for a kidney transplant?

The evaluation process may take several days and includes:

• A thorough physical exam
• Imaging studies, such as X-ray, MRI or CT scans
• Blood tests
• Psychological evaluation
• Any other necessary testing as determined by your doctor