The success rate of kidney transplantation is very high, reaching 97% in the first year and 86% after five years.

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Patient Experience

“My experience with kidney transplantation was difficult. I suffered from kidney failure and had to undergo dialysis three times a week for a long time until I found a compatible donor. The success of the transplant saved me from dialysis and its risks, though I experienced some side effects from the medications after surgery.”

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Measuring Success

The success rate of kidney transplantation is measured by the percentage of patients surviving one year and five years post-surgery. It is one of the most successful organ transplant surgeries.

• 1-year survival: 97%
• 5-year survival: 86%

Even in cases of transplant failure due to organ rejection, patients often have a second chance with another transplant, usually with a higher chance of success.

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Factors Affecting Success

• Donor type: Success rates are higher with living donors, especially family members, than with deceased donors.
• Underlying disease: Higher success in cases like polycystic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, and certain cancers.
• Surgeon’s skill: Kidney transplantation is a delicate procedure requiring expertise.

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The Surgery

• An incision is made in the abdomen.
• The new kidney is placed in the pelvis while the patient’s original kidneys remain.
• Blood vessels and ureter are connected to ensure function.

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After Surgery

Patients take immunosuppressants (e.g., Tacrolimus, corticosteroids, mycophenolic acid, azathioprine, sirolimus, everolimus) to prevent rejection.

Side effects may include:

• Osteoporosis
• Diabetes
• Hair loss
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Infections and higher cancer risk
• Swelling and weight gain

Despite side effects, these medications are essential to maintain transplant success.

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Recovery & Isolation

Because of immunosuppression, patients must:

• Wash hands frequently
• Maintain strict hygiene
• Avoid contact with sick individuals or recently vaccinated children
• Report symptoms (e.g., wounds not healing, urinary pain, cough, sore throat) immediately

Vaccination tips:

• Get hepatitis B vaccine before surgery
• Avoid live-virus vaccines after transplant
• Delay flu vaccine for 6 months, then take annually

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Indications for Kidney Transplant

Recommended for end-stage kidney failure patients, often due to:

• Diabetes
• Long-term high blood pressure
• Glomerulonephritis
• Polycystic kidney disease

It is often chosen over dialysis due to lower long-term risks and costs.

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Cost in Turkey

Turkey is a leading destination for medical tourism, offering world-class care at affordable rates.

• Average cost: $18,000 – $20,000 USD
• Success rates match international standards

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Conclusion

Kidney transplantation is a delicate but highly successful surgery:

• 97% success at 1 year, 86% at 5 years
• Risks exist before, during, and after surgery (finding a donor, surgical complications, medication side effects)
• With proper care and medication, most patients live long and normal lives

Sources:

• Kidney transplant
• Indications for kidney transplant
• Medications after kidney transplant
• Success rate of kidney transplant
• Kidney transplant donors

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