How is a Kidney Transplant performed?

Once it is suitable for transplant, the procedure will be performed as soon as possible to ensure success. The patient is then placed in general anaesthesia to prevent pain, anxiety and discomfort during the surgical procedure. The procedure usually takes 3–5 hours to complete.

It has three main stages:

First Stage: The surgeon makes an incision (cut) in the lower abdomen (or tummy), where the donated kidney is intended to be placed. The patient’s own kidneys are left intact and are only removed if they are causing infection or pain.

Second Stage: The blood vessels of the donated kidney are intricately attached to the blood vessels of the patient’s lower abdomen, to provide the newly transplanted kidney the blood supply it needs to function in a new body.

Third Stage: Lastly, the ureter (tube that carries urine) of the transplanted kidney is connected to the patient’s bladder. A stent (small plastic tube) is inserted into the ureter to ensure a good flow of urine. The stent will be later removed after 6 to 10 weeks thru a cystoscopy, a minor procedure. When the new kidney is already in place, the incision made in the patient’s abdomen will be sutured (closed) thru stitches, surgical staples or surgical glue.

How Much Does Kidney Transplantation Cost?

In the US alone, it may cost USD $263,000 for one kidney. This includes the kidney procurement, physician/surgeon, hospital accommodation, diagnostics, follow-up care and medications.

In India, for patients who opt for a Single Room in a medical facility will cost them USD $13,500 while if they twin share, the cost is only USD $11,500 USD. In Turkey, the cost is USD $30,000 while in Jordan, it is USD $20,000. In other countries like Mexico a kidney transplant will cost you $47,000, while in in Philippines, it will be around USD $24,000.

The medical facilities that offer the procedure are world-class healthcare facilities that use modern and high-tech amenities, whose surgeons are experienced and highly trained, qualified by accrediting bodies within their home countries or by Joint Commission International.