This guide provides detailed information about various hospitals for a kidney transplant in Florida, including eligibility requirements, the transplant process, and post-transplant care. Whether you are exploring your treatment options or have already decided to pursue a transplant, this resource can help you understand what to expect.
What is a kidney transplant?
A kidney transplant in Florida is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney is removed from one person and placed into another person’s body. The donor kidney can come from a living donor or from someone who has recently passed away. Kidney transplants are the most common type of organ transplant. More than 18,000 kidney transplants are performed each year in the United States.
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What is a “preemptive” or “early” transplant?
A preemptive or early kidney transplant is a kidney transplant that is scheduled before the patient’s kidneys have failed completely. A preemptive transplant may be an option for some patients with kidney failure who are not yet on dialysis.
Types of kidney transplant
There are two types of kidney transplant
1. Paired donation
In a paired donation, a kidney is donated by one person to another person in need. The donor and recipient are not related and do not have to be compatible for blood type or tissue type
2. Living kidney donation
A living kidney donation is when the kidney is donated by a living person to another person in need. The donor and recipient must be compatible for blood type and tissue type
Who can get a kidney transplant in Florida?
The criteria for eligibility for a kidney transplant vary from person to person and may change over time. broadly speaking, the following factors are considered when determining eligibility for a kidney transplant:
The patient’s medical condition and degree of kidney failure
The patient’s age and overall health
The availability of a compatible kidney donor
Generally, patients who are in the best overall health and have the least amount of kidney damage are the most likely to be eligible for a kidney transplant.
How to prepare for a kidney transplant in Florida
If you are considering a kidney transplant, the first step is to meet with your doctor to discuss your treatment options. You will also need to have a series of tests to determine if you are eligible for a kidney transplant and to find a compatible donor.
The tests that you will need to undergo depend on your individual situation, but may include the following:
1. Blood tests: A blood test can determine your blood type and tissue type.
2. Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, can help your doctor evaluate your kidney function and the size and shape of your kidneys.
3. Urine tests: A urine test can help identify kidney stones or other kidney problems.
4. Biopsy: A biopsy is a test that is used to evaluate the health of your kidney tissue.
5. HLA typing: HLA typing is a blood test that determines your human leukocyte antigen (HLA) type. The HLA type is important when finding a compatible kidney donor.
6. Genetic tests: Some patients may need genetic testing to determine if they are at risk for kidney diseases that can occur in families.
The tests that you need may vary depending on your individual situation. Your doctor will be able to tell you which tests you need to complete.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may also need to have a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
There are many hospitals that perform kidney transplants each year. Some of the most reputable kidney transplant hospitals in the country include Florida Hospital Kidney Transplant Center and Johns Hopkins Hospital.
