Published with the inputs from Dr Sunil George, Nephrologist, Baby Memorial Hospitals-Kozhikode
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a donor is placed into a patient whose kidneys have failed. It is considered the best treatment for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) because it offers a better quality of life, freedom from dialysis, and longer survival compared to long-term dialysis.
A kidney transplant replaces a non-functioning kidney with a healthy one from a living or deceased donor. Since only one healthy kidney is needed to perform essential functions, transplantation restores normal kidney function in most patients.
Patients with end-stage kidney disease (kidney function below 10–15%) are candidates, especially if they:
Yes. A successful kidney transplant offers:
Success rates are high, with 1-year survival rates above 90–95% for both patients and transplanted kidneys. Long-term outcomes depend on donor type, recipient health, and adherence to medications.
Possible risks include:
These are closely monitored with regular follow-ups.
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 weeks. Normal activities can be resumed in 6–8 weeks, though lifelong monitoring and medications are required.
If you or a loved one is suffering from end-stage kidney disease, the Renal Transplant Program at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) provides comprehensive kidney transplant services, including advanced donor matching, expert surgical care, and long-term post-transplant monitoring.
👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our nephrology and transplant specialists.