The chances that a transplanted kidney will continue to function are between 80 and 90 percent one year after the operation. Results of transplantation are improving steadily with research advances. For instance research has led to improvements in surgical techniques, preservation of donated kidneys and drugs used to prevent rejection of transplanted kidneys. In the event that a transplanted kidney fails, retransplantation is a good option for many patients. In many cases, older people and people with diseases such as diabetes, heart trouble and other health problems can have successful kidney transplants.
Careful evaluation is needed to understand and modify any special risks.
Sometimes it is possible to do a pancreas transplant along with your kidney transplantation. Your doctor can advise you about this possibility. In people who have not had satisfactory sexual function, there may be a steady improvement in sexual function as they begin to feel better after a transplant. Women should avoid becoming pregnant too soon after a transplant. Birth control counseling can be helpful at this time.