PREFACE

        In the recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of case of end stage kidney disease (ESKD). It is estimated that each year 3 to 4 lakhs people develop ESKD in our country. For these cases, the treatment options are limited and include life-long dialysis or kidney transplantation.

        Dialysis is a partial treatment and time consuming. Only 10 to 15% of the excretory function of the kidney is achieved with commonly prescribed dialysis therapy. As a result, most patients cannot return to a normal lifestyle. Moreover, because it is a partial treatment, there is a markedly increased risk of heart disease which in turn significantly shortens the life span. Finally, dialysis therapy is extremely expensive.

        Kidney transplantation is a complete treatment. Once a successful kidney transplant is achieved, the patient returns to a near-normal life style. The survival after transplant is much better than on dialysis and in the long run, transplant is far less expensive.

        Despite clear advantages of transplantation, very few patients go for it. The reasons are: i) fear and lack of knowledge about kidney transplant; ii) non-availability of kidney. In this book we have tried to solve these 2 common reasons.

        To alleviate the fear of going through transplant, we have provided experiences of patients who have gone through transplant. To educate about kidney transplant, we have provided complete information about the transplant including preparation before transplant, transplant operation and care to be taken after transplantation.

        To increase availability of kidneys, we have provided information about what one needs to go through to donate a kidney and experiences of some donors who have gone through the process. We hope this will give courage to the potential donors. We have also provided detailed information about donation after death. Hopefully this will increase the number of deceased donors. This in turn will help not only patients with ESKD but also those with end stage heart, lung or liver disease.

        Cost is a problem for any treatment. One must realize that kidney transplant is far less expensive then dialysis. While kidney transplant involves an initial high expense, it is possible to get financial support from charitable organizations. One has to work for it.

        We hope patients with CKD will find this book useful in making the right decision for their treatment.

        We are grateful to Mr. Jitendra Gala, Navneet Prakashan Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Rajni Dhuwad, Ms. Parmeet Arora, Mrs. Leena D’Silva and Mrs. Zamuruud Patel for all their help and guidance in preparing this book. We also acknowledge and thank all transplant patients and organ donors who provided their experiences.