Begin typing your search above and press return to search.
Volume: 2 Issue: 2 December 2004 - Supplement - 1

FULL TEXT

ASSESSMENT OF LIVING UNRELATED DONOR KNOWLEDGE ABOUT KIDNEY DONATION COMPLICATIONS

Live unrelated donors (LURDs) are increasingly accepted as an alternative source for cadaveric kidneys, trying to reduce the long waiting list for renal transplantation (Tx). In our country LURDs constitute the major source of renal allografts. LURD Tx is performed in a controlled Tx program, closely supervised by university Tx teams and assisted by Dialysis and Transplant Patient’s Association (DAPTA). The main aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of donors about possible short-term and long-term complications of kidney donation and the need for regular follow-up. We interviewed 51 live donor candidates, 11 in renal Tx ward, 2-5 days after kidney donation and 40 in DAPTA after completion of pre-Tx assessment. Demographic data were collected and questions regarding knowledge about Tx complications and intension for post-operative follow-up were asked. Of the 51 live donors 38 (74.5%) were male and 13 (25.5%) female. The mean age was 26.7 _ 5 years. 21 patients (41%) were smokers and 1 opium addict. The motivation for donation was altruistic in 3 (sibling in one and LURD in 2) and financial in 48 patients. 42 donors (82%) were not aware of the risks of donation, either short-term (peri-operative) or long-term, but 8 mentioned to renal failure as a possible long term complication. 10 donors believed that they shouldn’t lift heavy weight or exposed to cold weather after donation. Only 21 patients (41%) knew that they should visit doctors regularly. We conclude that most donors do not have enough knowledge about possible in-hospital and long-term complications of kidney donation and may not do regular follow-up after operation. Considering the low mean age of our renal Tx donors, we suggest more pre-operative orientation about possible complications and need for regular post-operative medical follow-up. Smoking withdrawal after kidney donation should be recommended.



Volume : 2
Issue : 2
Pages : 15


PDF VIEW [7] KB.