A pediatric kidney transplant is a surgical procedure to replace a child's diseased or failing kidneys with a healthy kidney from a donor. It is often the most effective long-term treatment for children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), allowing them to live a healthier and more active life.

The need for a kidney transplant can arise from various conditions. The most common causes are birth defects of the kidneys, inherited genetic diseases like Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), and chronic diseases that cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys' filters over time.

There are two main types of pediatric kidney transplants:

Living donor transplant: The kidney comes from a living person, usually a parent or close relative. This often allows for better matching and quicker scheduling.

Deceased donor transplant: The kidney is from a donor who has recently passed away and whose organs were donated. This may involve a waiting period based on availability and compatibility.

A living-donor transplant uses a kidney from a healthy adult, often a family member. This is often the preferred option as it can be scheduled in advance, and the kidney is usually healthier, leading to better long-term outcomes. A deceased-donor transplant uses a kidney from a person who has recently passed away, and the child is placed on a waiting list for a suitable match.

Before a pediatric kidney transplant, your child will undergo several tests to ensure readiness and donor compatibility. These include blood tests, tissue typing, crossmatching, imaging (like ultrasounds or CT scans), heart evaluation, infection screening, and psychological assessments. Together, these tests help ensure a safe and successful transplant.

The long-term outcomes are very positive. With modern medicine and a dedicated care team, the vast majority of pediatric kidney transplant recipients go on to lead healthy, active, and fulfilling lives. Consistent follow-up care and adherence to the medication schedule are the keys to a successful long-term outcome.

A kidney donor can be a living or deceased individual, but certain criteria must be met. Living donors must be between 18 and 55 years old, in good physical and mental health, and have blood type compatibility with the child. The most common living donors are parents, siblings, or close family friends. All potential donors undergo thorough medical and psychological evaluations to ensure a safe and successful transplant.

The cost of pediatric kidney transplant depends on the individual’s previous history of comorbidities, type of kidney transplant surgery required, recommended post-transplant recovery period.

After a kidney transplant, most children can return to normal activities with few restrictions. The goal is for them to lead a full, typical childhood. The care team encourages shared decision-making about daily activities, including school and sports. For international travel, it’s important to ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date and to identify local healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.

Some OTC medicines are safe after a kidney transplant, but others must be avoided. Medications like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), decongestants, and herbal supplements can harm the kidney or interfere with transplant medications. Always check with your doctor before giving your child any medication without prescription.

Rainbow Children's Hospital follows a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together a highly specialized team to ensure the best outcomes for pediatric kidney transplant patients. This expert team includes Pediatric Nephrologists, Transplant Surgeons, Pediatric Urologists, Specialized Nurses, Dietitians, and Social Workers. Together, they provide comprehensive care that addresses the child’s medical needs, emotional well-being, and offers continuous support and guidance to the family throughout the transplant journey.