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If you're reading this, chances are you or someone close to you is facing kidney issues and exploring options for long-term treatment. Among all the possibilities, kidney transplant surgery often brings hope for a better quality of life. But who exactly can go for a kidney transplant? What factors determine eligibility? And is everyone with kidney failure a candidate?

Let's clear the doubt about kidney transplant surgery with practical insights from Dr. Chipde, a trusted name for advanced kidney care and transplant evaluation.

Understanding Kidney Transplant

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a donor is placed into someone whose kidneys are no longer functioning properly (typically due to end-stage kidney disease). It's not a cure, but for many, it's the closest step to reclaiming a normal, active life without the constraints of lifelong dialysis.

However, not everyone is automatically a candidate for this surgery. Eligibility is based on several health, medical, and lifestyle-related factors.

Who is Eligible for a Kidney Transplant?

Generally, a patient is considered for a transplant when:

• They have end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) or stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD), meaning the kidneys function at less than 15% capacity.
• They are otherwise healthy enough to undergo surgery and manage post-surgical care, including lifelong medication.
• They do not have active infections or untreated cancer.
• They are willing to commit to a healthy lifestyle after the transplant.

At Dr. Chipde's Clinic, each patient undergoes a thorough pre-transplant evaluation to determine their readiness, physically, mentally, and socially.

What Makes Someone Ineligible?

Certain health conditions or lifestyle factors may make a person temporarily or permanently ineligible, such as:

• Uncontrolled heart disease or other major medical issues that increase surgical risk
• Active or recently treated cancer
• Severe infections
• Untreated mental health disorders
• Substance abuse problems
• Non-compliance with medications or dialysis
• Extremely advanced age, depending on overall health

Dr. Chipde carefully assesses these factors to ensure the transplant will be successful and sustainable in the long run.

Criteria for a Kidney Transplant Match

Getting listed for a transplant is just one step. The next step is finding a suitable donor. This depends on:

• Blood type compatibility
• Tissue HLA (human leukocyte antigen) matching
• Crossmatch testing – checking for antibodies that could attack the donor organ

While close family members often make good matches, non-related donors or cadaveric (deceased) donors can also be suitable, depending on compatibility.

Dr. Chipde works closely with donors and recipients to make the process smooth and safe.

How Long Can You Live After a Kidney Transplant?

This is one of the most common—and important—questions patients ask.

On average:

• A living donor kidney can last 15 to 20 years or more
• A deceased donor kidney may last 10 to 15 years

That said, many patients go on to live full, active lives for decades post-transplant, especially when they follow their medication, attend regular follow-ups, and make healthy lifestyle choices.

Trust Experience, Choose Care

A kidney transplant surgery is not just a medical procedure—it's a second chance at life. But the journey begins with understanding eligibility, undergoing a detailed evaluation, and being under the care of an expert team.

Dr. Chipde specializes in comprehensive kidney care, from diagnosis to transplant readiness and long-term management. With years of expertise in nephrology and urology, we're here to guide you every step of the way.