In order to receive a kidney from an organ donor who has died (deceased donor), a recipient must be placed on a waiting list of the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Extensive testing must be done before an individual can be placed on the transplant list.

Because of the wide range of information necessary to determine eligibility for transplant, the evaluation process is carried out by a transplant team. The team includes a transplant surgeon, a transplant nephrologist (physician specializing in the treatment of the kidneys), one or more transplant nurses, a social worker, registered dietitian and a financial coordinator.

Components of the transplant evaluation process include, but are not limited to, the following:

• psychological and social evaluation: Psychological and social issues involved in organ transplantation, such as stress, financial issues, and support by family and/or significant others are assessed. These issues can significantly impact the outcome of a transplant.
• blood tests: Blood tests are performed to help determine a good donor match, to assess your priority on the donor list, and to help improve the chances that the donor organ will not be rejected.
• diagnostic tests: Diagnostic tests may be performed to assess your kidneys as well as your overall health status. These tests may include x-rays, ultrasound procedures, kidney biopsy, and dental examinations.  Women may receive a Pap test, gynecology evaluation, and a mammogram.

The transplant team will consider all information from interviews, your medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests in determining your eligibility for kidney transplantation.

Once you have been accepted as a transplant candidate, you will be placed on the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) list. Candidates in most urgent need of a transplant are placed highest on the status list and are given first priority when a donor kidney becomes available. When a donor organ becomes available, you will be notified and told to come to the hospital immediately.

If you are to receive a kidney from a living family member (living-related transplant), the transplant may be performed at a planned time. The potential donor must have a compatible blood type and be in good health. A psychological test will be conducted to ensure the donor is comfortable with the decision.

The following steps will precede the transplant:

• Your physician will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions that you might have about the procedure.
• You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the surgery. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something is not clear.
• If you have been on routine dialysis before the procedure, you will receive dialysis prior to the procedure.
• For a planned living transplant, you should fast for eight hours before the operation, generally after midnight. In the case of a cadaver organ transplant, you should begin to fast once you are notified that a kidney has become available.
• You may receive a sedative prior to the procedure to help you relax.
• The area around the surgical site may be shaved.
• Based upon your medical condition, your physician may request other specific preparation.

Back