Kidney Transplant Treatment in Thailand
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
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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.
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Typical hospital stay:
10-14 days
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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 Thailand, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Thailand with renal transplantation departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform kidney transplant. MediFyr helps you compare renal transplant specialists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | USD 9,450 – USD 28,350 | 10-14 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities | Know More |
| Thailand | USD 9,600 – USD 33,600 | 10-14 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities | Know More |
| South Korea | USD 9,600 – USD 33,600 | 10-14 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities | Know More |
| India | USD 5,455 – USD 16,366 | 10-14 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 40,309 – USD 120,927 | 10-14 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months to resume most normal activities | Know More |
PATIENT REVIEW
Dr. yuvraj k renal transplant specialist...
Dr. yuvraj k renal transplant specialist provided exceptional care for my renal transplantation condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.