Chances of survival

The transplant is a major operation and you should be briefed on all possible complications.

The kidney transplant is a major operation and you should be briefed on all possible complications.

The immuno-suppressant cyclosporin has increased the survival rate substantially. The five-year survival rate of a live related tissue-matched transplant is pretty high, about 90 per cent. With cyclosporin, the five-year graft survival rate of a cadaveric transplant patient is 75-80 per cent.

These are rough indicators based on local hospital records.

Advantages and Disadvantages of transplants in comparison with other treatment options

Advantages	Disadvantages
Most similar to original kidneys	Stress of waiting for kidney match
No dialysis needed (post transplant)	Risks associated with major surgery
No access needed	Risk of transplant rejection
Normal diet	Regular medication required
Normal schedule	Lower resistance to illness, infection
Fewer clinic visits	Drug side effects-cosmetic & medical

(Source: Webhealthcentre.com)