Our Summary

This research paper looked at the survival rates of patients who received kidney transplants. Their study was based on data from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), which was collected between January 2000 and December 2014.

The patients in the study were divided into three groups. Group A included patients who received their first kidney transplant, Group B consisted of patients who received a second kidney transplant, and Group C was made up of patients who had a kidney transplant after having a liver, heart, or lung transplant.

The researchers found that patients who had a kidney transplant after a non-kidney organ transplant had a significantly lower survival rate compared to those who had either a first or second kidney transplant. Similarly, the success rate (survival of the transplanted kidney) was also lower in these patients.

The survival rates after liver, heart, or lung transplants were about the same. The main reason for the loss of the transplanted kidney in patients who had a prior non-kidney organ transplant was death.

FAQs

  1. What was the main finding of the research paper on kidney transplant survival rates?
  2. How were the patients in the study divided into groups?
  3. What was the main cause for the loss of the transplanted kidney in patients who had a prior non-kidney organ transplant?

Doctor’s Tip

Patients who have had a non-kidney organ transplant should be aware that they may have a lower survival rate and success rate for a subsequent kidney transplant. It is important to discuss these risks with your healthcare team and closely follow all post-transplant care instructions to optimize your chances of a successful outcome.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are recommended for organ transplant typically have end-stage organ failure, meaning their organs are no longer functioning properly and are at risk of causing serious health complications or death. Common types of patients recommended for organ transplant include those with:

  1. End-stage kidney disease
  2. End-stage heart failure
  3. End-stage liver disease
  4. End-stage lung disease
  5. Severe heart defects or abnormalities
  6. Genetic disorders affecting organ function
  7. Autoimmune diseases affecting organ function

Patients who are recommended for organ transplant typically undergo a thorough evaluation process to determine if they are suitable candidates for the procedure. This evaluation may include medical tests, psychological assessments, and discussions with a transplant team to ensure the patient understands the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Ultimately, the decision to recommend organ transplant is based on the patient’s overall health, the severity of their condition, and their likelihood of benefiting from the procedure. Organ transplant can be a life-saving treatment for many patients with end-stage organ failure, providing them with a new lease on life and improved quality of life.

Timeline

Before the organ transplant, a patient will typically undergo a series of medical tests to determine their eligibility for the transplant. This may include blood tests, imaging tests, and other evaluations to assess the patient’s overall health and the function of the organ needing to be transplanted.

Once a patient is deemed eligible for a transplant, they will be placed on a waiting list for a compatible donor organ. This waiting period can vary greatly depending on factors such as the availability of organs and the patient’s specific medical condition.

After receiving the organ transplant, the patient will undergo a period of recovery in the hospital, where they will be closely monitored for any signs of complications or rejection. They will also need to take immunosuppressant medications to prevent their body from rejecting the new organ.

In the months and years following the transplant, the patient will continue to be monitored by medical professionals to ensure the success of the transplant and to address any potential complications that may arise. This may include regular check-ups, blood tests, and imaging tests to assess the function of the transplanted organ.

Overall, the process of receiving an organ transplant is a complex and challenging journey that requires careful monitoring and management to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of receiving a kidney transplant after having a non-kidney organ transplant?

  2. How does having a prior non-kidney organ transplant impact the success rate of a kidney transplant?

  3. What factors should be considered when deciding whether to proceed with a kidney transplant after a non-kidney organ transplant?

  4. Are there any specific precautions or additional monitoring that should be taken for patients who have had a prior non-kidney organ transplant before receiving a kidney transplant?

  5. How does the survival rate of patients who have had a prior non-kidney organ transplant compare to those who are receiving their first or second kidney transplant?

  6. Are there any differences in the long-term outcomes or complications for patients who have had a prior non-kidney organ transplant compared to those who have not?

  7. What are the potential reasons for the lower survival rate and success rate of kidney transplants in patients who have had a prior non-kidney organ transplant?

  8. Are there any alternative treatment options or considerations for patients who have had a prior non-kidney organ transplant and are in need of a kidney transplant?

Reference

Authors: El-Husseini A, Aghil A, Ramirez J, Sawaya B, Rajagopalan N, Baz M, Mei X, Davenport DL, Gedaly R. Journal: Clin Transplant. 2017 Nov;31(11). doi: 10.1111/ctr.13108. Epub 2017 Oct 16. PMID: 28881060