Name of the Procedure:

Removal of transplanted renal allograft (Nephrectomy of transplanted kidney)

Summary

The removal of a transplanted kidney involves surgically taking out a donor kidney that was previously transplanted into a patient. This procedure might be necessary due to various complications or failure of the transplanted organ.

Purpose

• Addresses significant dysfunction or failure of the transplanted kidney.
• Relief from symptoms such as pain, infection, and systemic effects due to a failing transplant.
• Prevention of further complications from a non-functioning or problematic kidney.

Indications

• Chronic rejection of the transplanted kidney.
• Infection or sepsis originating from the transplant.
• Severe pain or clotting issues associated with the transplant.
• Formation of masses, tumors, or other abnormalities in the transplanted kidney.
• Acute rejection unmanageable with medications.

Preparation

• Patients are generally advised to fast for several hours before the surgery.
• Blood tests, imaging studies (CT scan, Ultrasound), and urine tests might be performed to assess the current function and condition of the transplanted kidney and surrounding tissues.
• Medication review and adjustments may be necessary, particularly involving immunosuppressants and anticoagulants.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be placed under general anesthesia.
2. A surgical incision is made in the abdomen, usually near the site of the transplanted kidney.
3. The surgeon will carefully detach the kidney from the associated blood vessels and ureter.
4. The transplanted kidney is then removed.
5. The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a drain may be placed to remove any excess fluids.
   • Tools used may include scalpels, forceps, clamps, and possibly laparoscopic instruments.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on complexity and any present complications.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Surgeons specialized in nephrology and transplant surgery.
• Anesthesiologists to manage anesthesia.
• Surgical nurses and technicians assisting with the operation.
• Post-operative care team, including nurses and possibly a nephrologist for follow-up.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Bleeding, infection, pain at the surgical site.
• Rare risks: Damage to surrounding organs, severe blood loss, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), complications from anesthesia.
• Possible complications: Acute kidney injury, urinary problems, recurrence of original symptoms if underlying cause persists.

Benefits

• Removal of a dysfunctional or harmful kidney reduces infection risk and associated symptoms.
• Relief from pain and other local complications.
• Improved overall health by removing the source of systemic issues.

Recovery

• Hospital stay of a few days, depending on patient condition and surgical complexity.
• Post-operative care includes pain management, monitoring for infection, and ensuring proper fluid and electrolyte balance.
• Patients should avoid strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks and follow a specific diet and medication regimen.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and kidney function.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical management might include stronger immunosuppressive therapy, though this is not always effective.
• Dialysis as a method to manage kidney failure without removing the transplant.
• Retention of the transplanted kidney in cases where risks of removal outweigh potential benefits, monitored carefully for complications.

Patient Experience

• Intraoperative experience is pain-free due to general anesthesia.
• Post-procedure, patients may experience pain at incision sites managed with prescribed painkillers.
• Patient feels progressively better as early recovery phase advances, with follow-up care helping adjust medications and manage any potential discomfort.