Transplant tests

[Munf]

Hi, just wondering what tests you had to have to see if you were fit enough for a transplant? Also how long did they take? . I'm based in the Uk. Thanks

[TaffyTwoshoes27]

Since I just had my second, 2-year reevaluation for transplant, this is fresh in my mind so I will share my experience of qualifying for transplant in the Atlanta, Georgia (USA) area.

First, your nephrologist has to refer you to a Transplant Hospital. There are only 3 in Georgia: 2 in Atlanta, 1 in Augusta.

At my appontment, I stayed in one exam room and several people came in the room, including a Renal Nurse (she did an exam, blood pressure, temp, weight, info of my meds, administered an ekg, listened to my chest/lungs, examined my abdomen by pressing on my tummy while I was lying on the exam table), Social Worker, Financial Counselor, and the Nephrologist.

Then, I went to another room for blood labs. 11 vials.

Then, I talked to a Social Worker who asks a bunch of questions to see if you are staying engaged, compliant with doctor appts, taking your meds, not being depressed. To make a long story short: they are not going to waste a kidney on someone who doesn't want to live and work hard to stay healthy -- mentally and physically.

Then, the first time I went for evaluation, someone came in the room to go over my health insurance and discussed ways to save and get assistance with medications needed after transplant.

Then, they sent me to another part of the hospital for a chest x-ray, ultrasound and pelvic CT scan.

This process took between 4-6 hours.

I was given information about other tests the Transplant Center requires, including a yearly mammogram; PAP exam; stress test (heart) and echocardiogram; and mental wellness checkup (I have anxiety and mild depression issues). This year, they want me to arrange another kidney ultrasound in 6 months to check the status of a cyst on one of my kidneys.

The nurse also talked to me about making sure that I keep up with dental health. She said the anti-rejection meds can cause dental issues if I do not keep up with cleanings, etc.

At the first evaluation (2015), I met the Nephrologist assigned to my care. I recently learned from my regular nephrologist that the Transplant Hospital Nephrologist visted him and went over the list of patients listed at the Hospital to get my regular neph's opinion about his patients' compliance, demeanor, transplant worthiness, etc.

About 4-6 weeks after the initial appointment in 2015, I received a letter informing me that the Hospital had listed my name with the US Organ Sharing organization.

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) in the US administers the data about the wait times, transplant centers and other information for the sharing of all transplantable organs (liver, lungs, kidneys, pancreas). I have called them and learned that other Transplant Hospitals in other cities have far shorter waiting times than the Region where I live -- even hospitals in my region where the wait times are shorter, i.e., Orlando, FL. I could get evaluated and listed in Orlando by visiting their Transplant Hospital but I would have to be approx. 4 hours from the Hospital (or move closer to a Transplant Hospital) to qualify as a viable transplant-listed patient.

I hope this helps you. If you have a question, please let me know.

[Redear in reply to TaffyTwoshoes27]

I looked at your profile and had a question. You said your ckd was due to undiagnosed/treated high blood pressure. Did you mean “untreated” high blood pressure?

[TaffyTwoshoes27 in reply to Redear]

Yes, that's what I meant. I had a couple episodes of kidney infection when I was 8 or 9 yrs old.

[Runningman1963]

I myself had to have a stress test , psychological examination , and meet with a Transplant coordinator. I was able to exercise so my weight and physical condition can handle the surgery .I was on dialysis for Five years . I had My Transplant in 2007 and with a good diet and exercise I'm still hanging in there.