Kidney Transplant
Kidney transplantation is widely recognized as the preferred treatment option for patients with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), offering improved quality of life and long-term health outcomes when compared to chronic dialysis. Many patients experience greater energy levels, fewer dietary restrictions, increased independence, and improved survival after a successful transplant.
At AKDHC, we provide comprehensive kidney transplant care for patients with advanced kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Our experienced team works closely with transplant centers to guide patients through every step of the transplant journey—from early evaluation and education to post-transplant follow-up and long-term care. With a patient-centered approach, we focus on improving quality of life, supporting informed decision-making, and helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes before and after kidney transplant.
AKDHC provides comprehensive care for kidney and kidney/pancreas transplant patients, including but not limited to:
Acute care and dialytic support
- Specialized kidney transplant expertise for all renal transplant recipients
Coordination of transplant biopsies to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely follow-up care through close collaboration with pathology and radiology departments
Expertise in organ procurement and allocation
Optimization of immunosuppressive therapy and management of recurrent kidney disease
At AKDHC, our multidisciplinary transplant team is dedicated to guiding patients through every stage of the transplant process—from evaluation and surgery to long-term post-transplant care—helping patients achieve better health, greater independence, and an improved quality of life.
Which Transplant Centers Does AKDHC Refer Patients To?
AKDHC partners with leading transplant centers to ensure our patients have access to comprehensive, high-quality transplant evaluation and care. These centers are recognized for their expertise in kidney transplantation, multidisciplinary care teams, and patient-centered approach. Through our referral relationships, AKDHC works closely with transplant specialists to support seamless coordination of care—from initial evaluation through transplant and long-term follow-up—so patients receive timely, informed, and compassionate treatment.
AKDHC currently refers patients to the following transplant centers:
- Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix
- Banner – University Medical Center Tucson
- Mayo Clinic
- St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center
VA Patient Referrals
Patients with VA insurance must obtain a referral from their VA primary care provider. VA referrals must originate within the VA system, and patients will be referred to a transplant center at a VA facility.
What Should I Know About a Kidney Transplant?
For many people with chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease, a kidney transplant can be a successful and effective alternative to long-term dialysis. Kidney transplants have a high success rate and often allow patients to live longer and enjoy a better quality of life than those who remain on dialysis. Many transplanted kidneys function well for 10 years or longer.
While a transplant may not replace all other treatments, it can significantly improve kidney function and daily living. At AKDHC, our specialists will review your individual health needs and work with you to create the best treatment plan.
What Are My Kidney Transplant Options?
At AKDHC, we help patients understand all available kidney transplant options so they can make informed decisions about their care.
Living Donor Kidney Transplant
A living donor kidney transplant is often the preferred option for patients who have a willing and medically eligible donor. Living donor transplants usually offer shorter wait times and long-lasting results.
Living related donors may include a parent, sibling, or other close family member. These kidneys are often a good match, which can lower the risk of rejection.
Living unrelated donors, such as a spouse, partner, or friend, are also an excellent option and can significantly reduce the time spent waiting for a transplant.
If a donor is not a direct match, paired or shared donor matching programs may be available. Our transplant team can explain these options during your AKDHC transplant visit.
Deceased Donor Transplant and the Waiting List
If you do not have a living donor, or if you need a kidney and pancreas transplant, you may be eligible to be placed on the deceased donor waiting list.
While on the waiting list, it is important to:
Attend regular visits with your transplant provider
Complete all required testing, including blood work and imaging
Keep your medical information up to date
Staying current with appointments and testing allows the transplant team to move quickly when an organ becomes available.
The Kidney Transplant Process at AKDHC
The kidney transplant process includes several important steps. The team at AKDHC will guide you through each stage and help you understand what to expect.
Initial Evaluation
AKDHC specialists will review your medical history and perform clinical tests to determine whether a kidney transplant is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you.Referral to a Transplant Center
If a transplant is recommended, you will be referred to a transplant center. The transplant center team will complete additional testing and evaluations to decide if you are a good candidate. Each transplant center has its own criteria for accepting patients.Transplant Listing or Living Donor Evaluation
If approved, you will be placed on the national organ transplant waiting list. If a living donor is available, that donor will also be evaluated. A living donor transplant can move forward once all evaluations are complete.Planning and Support
Before transplant, it is important to plan for recovery. You may need help at home after surgery, so organizing a support system ahead of time is essential. You will also work with financial coordinators to plan for transplant-related costs and medications needed to prevent rejection.Waiting Period
Waiting times vary based on factors such as blood type, medical condition, and organ availability. During this time, it is important to keep all appointments and complete any required testing.Preparing for Surgery
As transplant surgery approaches, additional testing may be required. You must be ready and available if you receive “the call,” as the transplant center will expect you to arrive at the hospital within a short period of time.Post-Transplant Care
After surgery, your medical team will closely monitor your recovery. AKDHC providers will help you understand your medications, follow-up care, and how to protect your new kidney and prevent rejection.
What Happens During a Kidney Transplant?
A kidney transplant surgery usually takes 3 to 4 hours. After surgery, most patients stay in the hospital for about one week and then return for regular follow-up visits so we can closely monitor kidney function and overall health.
During the procedure, a transplant surgeon places a donated kidney into the lower abdomen and connects it to nearby blood vessels. The new kidney then begins to do the work your kidneys can no longer do.
To help prevent rejection, patients take anti-rejection medications after transplant. These medications are very important and help protect the new kidney so it can function properly.