Dialysis @ 80 years old after kidney removal...

[Barking_Mad]

My 80 year old Dad has cancer in the tube between his kidney and bladder. It was discovered in December, but had likely been there for a little while. At the moment it's not spread and he's in decent shape.

Remarkably a week last Friday he was given the opportunity of an operation for this coming Wednesday morning. He was up for it until the dialysis nurse came round yesterday and explained the process should he require it. 3 times a week to the hospital for half a day. She said at his age he could maybe expect to live another 1 to two years with dialysis and he'd feel poorly etc. Doctor said he could maybe live another 6 months to 2 years if he didn't have the operation.

He's now got 48 hours to make a decision but not much information on which to make it as they don't have any idea on whether his current kidney function of 26 for both kidneys will mean dialysis for the remaining one when they remove the affected tube and kidney. There's also a lack of willingness for any experts to put a % on any outcome which makes making a decision really difficult for him.

So, has anyone any experience of a kidney op and/or resulting dialysis in his age range? Is it manageable? What's the quality of life like?

Any thoughts appreciated.

Edit: his health aside from this is OK, although he has IPF but this doesn't bother him and can still get about. He drives and also helps my Mum who isnt in good shape.

[Darlenia]

Unfortunately, we don't know enough about his cancer or surgery. Apparently a medical team wants to remove one kidney, leaving the other. His gfr of 26 is life sustaining right now but, after the kidney is removed, he will need dialysis. And the outcome is around a two year survival no matter whether he does nothing or opts for surgery/dialysis. So wow - that's a huge dilemma. My husband is in his early 70s, not 80s, but his will to live is strong and he is on dialysis. I do know a few people in their late 70s who are also on dialysis - and live reasonably good lives. I also have encountered others who chose to stop - many of those had other serious health conditions. It's such an individual decision. The only advice I can offer is to advocate for sufficient time to give your dad room to make his decision with clarity - bringing in people you/he trust for direction. Personally speaking, I tend to have negative feelings regarding forced decisions via deadlines. I truly hope that your dad (and you) will have confidence, peace, and acceptance in the path chosen. Hugs to you and your father.

[Barking_Mad in reply to Darlenia]

Thanks for replying . I managed to speak to the Dialysis nurse who visited him Friday and she said that dialysis would not necessarily be required permanently (maybe after the op) as it usually begins when kidney function is 7 or 8. They obviously don't know the strength of the kidney they'll leave behind.

She also said life on dialysis was not necessarily 1 to 2 years and my Dad had misunderstood exactly what she said.

Thankfully the surgeon has agreed to postpone the op for two weeks so he has more time to consider his choices...

🧐

[Darlenia in reply to Barking_Mad]

This makes me exceptionally happy. The rush to decision-making troubled me. I'm glad you and your dad have additional time to review all information and evaluate all the outcomes. I'm certain your loved one will come to a decision that is appropriate and right. Thank you for the update!