Is a kidney transplant right for you?

A kidney transplant is usually the best treatment for kidney failure in patients who are fit enough for the operation

Key points

A kidney transplant can prolong or improve the life of many patients with long-term kidney failure
It is not a cure, as there are risks as well as benefits
Tests will be needed to determine if you are able to have a kidney transplant
Kidney transplants are not suitable for everyone

To have a kidney transplant, you must be well enough to cope with major surgery.

Every case is unique, but there are some steps all kidney transplant patients need to go through.

If your doctor thinks you may be suitable for a kidney transplant, they will arrange for you to have a series of tests.

A kidney transplant is not always the best choice for patients with kidney failure.

Find out what kidneys do and learn about the five stages of kidney failure.

Get answers to commonly asked kidney transplant questions.

If you’re considering a kidney transplant, your first step is to talk to your kidney doctor.

If you and your doctor agree a kidney transplant may be a good treatment for you, they will arrange for you to have a series of tests.

If you have other organs that are seriously diseased, you might need more than one type of organ transplant.

Find out how a kidney transplant can help and problems that might occur.

Sadia was on the transplant waiting list for a year before receiving a life-changing kidney transplant.

Staying healthy after a kidney transplant

Writing to your donor's family

Accepting or declining an offer for a kidney