Learn about Kidney Transplant Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Kidney Transplant and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Kidney Transplant

A kidney transplant, also known as renal transplantation, is a life-saving surgical procedure that replaces a patient's failed kidneys with a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor. It is the preferred treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), offering a significantly better quality of life and long-term survival compared to lifelong dialysis. The procedure involves placing the new kidney in the lower abdomen and connecting its blood vessels to the patient's iliac artery and vein. The ureter from the donor kidney is then attached to the patient's bladder. Following surgery, patients require lifelong immunosuppressive medications to prevent their body from rejecting the new organ. This complex procedure is performed by a specialized team of transplant surgeons, nephrologists, and support staff to ensure optimal outcomes.

Key Highlights

    Offers freedom from dialysis and its associated dietary and time restrictions.Significantly improves long-term survival rates compared to remaining on dialysis.Enhances overall quality of life, energy levels, and sense of well-being.Can correct complications of kidney failure like anemia and bone disease.Allows for a more normal diet and fluid intake.Provides a cost-effective long-term solution compared to indefinite dialysis./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • End-stage renal disease (ESRD) from any cause (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, glomerulonephritis).
  • Severe, irreversible kidney failure where dialysis is required or imminent.
  • Patients experiencing significant complications or poor quality of life on dialysis.
  • Certain genetic kidney diseases like polycystic kidney disease (PKD).
  • Recurrent kidney infections or other conditions causing permanent damage.

How to prepare

  • Undergo a comprehensive medical, surgical, and psychosocial evaluation to ensure transplant suitability.
  • Complete necessary tests: blood work, tissue typing, imaging (CT scan, ultrasound), heart and lung evaluations.
  • Receive vaccinations and manage any active infections or other medical conditions (e.g., dental work, heart issues).
  • Identify a potential living donor or get listed on the national deceased donor waiting list.
  • Maintain dialysis schedule and follow dietary and medication guidelines as prescribed.
  • Attend pre-transplant education sessions and meet with the transplant team (surgeon, nephrologist, coordinator, social worker).

Risks & possible complications

  • Surgical Risks: Bleeding, blood clots, infection, leakage from or blockage of the ureter.
  • Rejection: The immune system may attack the new kidney (acute or chronic rejection).
  • Side Effects of Immunosuppressants: Increased risk of infections, high blood pressure, diabetes, bone thinning, and certain cancers.
  • Recurrence: The original kidney disease may recur in the transplanted kidney.
  • Cardiovascular Events: Increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
  • Donor Kidney Failure: The transplanted kidney may eventually stop working.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital Stay (1-2 weeks): Close monitoring in the ICU initially, then a transplant ward. Pain management, IV fluids, and starting immunosuppressive drugs.
  • Immediate Post-Op: Frequent blood tests to monitor kidney function and medication levels. The new kidney may start working immediately or may take some time (delayed graft function).
  • At Home: Strict adherence to medication schedule is critical. Regular follow-up visits for blood tests and check-ups. Monitor for signs of rejection (fever, pain, decreased urine output) or infection.
  • Lifestyle: Gradual increase in activity; avoid heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks. Follow a heart-healthy diet, maintain hydration, and avoid raw/undercooked foods initially.
  • Long-term: Lifoutine follow-up with the transplant team. Manage other health conditions aggressively. Maintain a healthy lifestyle to protect the new kidney.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 10-14 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering kidney transplant in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for kidney transplant compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 500 Thousand – 1.5 Million 10-14 days ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities Know More
Turkey TRY 1.75 Million – 5.25 Million 10-14 days ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities Know More

Top hospitals for Kidney Transplant in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated renal transplantation teams and experience managing patients undergoing kidney transplant.

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89+ Rating

Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa

  • Iconvijayawada, India
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43+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

  • IconKolkata, India
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2143+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Baner

  • IconPune, India
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PATIENT REVIEW

Pari Davis, a 28-year-old graduate student...

Pari Davis, a 28-year-old graduate student from London, was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy (Berger's disease) at age 19. For years, the autoimmune disease slowly scarred her kidneys. The final decline was rapid, marked by frothy urine (proteinuria), high blood pressure, and extreme exhaustion that forced her to pause her studies. Her renal team at the teaching hospital explained that her kidney function was no longer sustainable. With no suitable living donor in her family, she was placed on the national deceased donor waiting list. After 18 months on peritoneal dialysis, which she managed at home but found isolating and restrictive, the call came. The transplant surgery itself was a blur of anxiety and hope. Recovery was challenging, complicated by a minor bout of rejection that was successfully treated with adjusted medications. A year later, Pari's creatinine levels are stable, she has returned to university, and she treasures the simple freedom of not being tied to a dialysis machine. Emotionally, she moved from a place of resentment and loss of control over her young life to one of deep reverence for her anonymous donor and their family. She feels a responsibility to live fully in honor of the gift she received.