When will I get a kidney?
That depends on:
- how common your blood type and antigens are
- the availability of kidneys
- the presence of antibodies in your blood
- how long you've been on the waiting list
Evaluation Tests Required for All Transplant Patients
HLA Typing: to identify how closely a donor kidney matches you
Blood Tests: to determine blood type and test for viruses and perform antibody screening
Chest X-ray: to see if your lungs are healthy
Electrocardiogram (EKG): to see how well your heart is functioning
Mammogram and Pap Smear: for women over 40
Evaluation for a Transplant
There are routine tests and discussions that take place before a kidney transplant is decided upon. Our kidney transplant team works with you to:
- identify the risks and benefits to you
- identify potential medical problems and additional testing that may be needed
- discuss options of living versus deceased donors
Tests for your evaluation are most often done as an outpatient. All of these tests can be done at Vanderbilt if you and your nephrologist wish and your medical insurance permits. Alternatively, many of these tests cna be performed in a doctor's office or hospital near you. All patients will be initially seen by:
- transplant surgeon or transplant nephrologist
- transplant coordinator
- social worker
In certain cases, you may benefit from further evaluation by other members of the transplant team such as:
- infectious disease doctor
- transplant psychiatric nurse practitioner
- financial counselor
- nutritionist/dietitian