What is Kidney Transplantation?
Kidney transplantation is a treatment for kidney failure where a healthy kidney from a donor is placed into your body. Unlike dialysis, which only does part of the kidney’s job, a transplant can restore full kidney function.
You may be a good candidate for kidney transplant if:
- You have advanced or end-stage kidney disease (typically when kidney function/ eGFR is at or below 20%).
- You’re healthy enough for surgery, including your heart, lungs, and other major systems.
- You’re willing to take daily medications to prevent rejection.
- You don’t have active cancer, severe infections, or untreated mental health conditions.
- You’re committed to follow-up care, including regular lab work and transplant visits
How We Help
Zachary Sutton, DHA, MS, MSPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA, FACHDM, is the Transplant Program Coordinator. He has experience as a living donor and as a physician assistant in general nephrology and transplant surgery.
Carolina Nephrology not only refers patients to transplant, but also offers:
- Pre-transplant education
- Pre-transplant homework visits
- Assistance with waitlist testing
- Short-term and long-term post-transplant care, including immunosuppression
- Coordination with transplant programs
- Referrals to transplant support groups and mentoring programs
Why Transplant May Be Better Than Dialysis
Better Quality of Life: Transplant patients often feel healthier, have more energy, and experience fewer limitations in their daily lives.
Fewer Dietary Restrictions: Transplant patients enjoy more flexibility with food and drink compared to those on dialysis.
Lower Risk of Death: Studies show that kidney transplant recipients live longer than patients who stay on dialysis.
Fewer Medical Complications: Over time, dialysis can strain the heart and other organs. A functioning transplanted kidney reduces this risk.
Types of Kidney Transplants
Preemptive Transplant: Happens before you ever need dialysis. Offers the best outcomes. Fewer complications and better long-term success.
Living Donor Transplant: A healthy kidney comes from a living relative, friend, or altruistic donor. Offers shorter wait times and better kidney survival. Surgery can be planned at the best time for you.
Deceased Donor Transplant: A kidney from someone who has passed away. Wait times may be longer, but it’s a life-saving option. Available to those without a living donor.
Is Kidney Transplant Right for You?
Every patient is unique. A kidney transplant is not right for every patient. Kidney transplant may be the best option if you want to:
- Live longer
- Enjoy a better quality of life
- Be more independent
- Avoid or stop dialysis
Ask your Carolina Nephrology provider today about starting the transplant evaluation process.
Your Transplant Journey: What to Expect
Evaluation: Blood tests, imaging, and a complete health check-up.
Waitlisting or Living Donor Search: If no living donor is available, you’ll be placed on the national waitlist.
Transplant Surgery: Usually takes 3–4 hours with a few days in the hospital.
Recovery & Aftercare: Most patients return to daily life in 4–6 weeks. Ongoing medications help keep your new kidney healthy.
