A patient may undergo a kidney transplant operation when their own kidneys have declined below 20% function or have completely failed. During the surgery, they receive a new kidney, either from a living donor or a recently deceased donor. This new kidney will then begin cleaning the blood of waste and excess fluid. A kidney transplant requires close follow-up with your kidney doctors and medications to keep the kidney healthy.
Kidney transplants are transformative for both families and the patient. Patients with kidney failure who receive a transplant, typically live longer than those on dialysis. They feel better, are more functional, and can participate more fully within society and families.
ENA supplies the most comprehensive kidney transplant care in the region. One of our four certified transplant nephrologists serves as the medical director of Vidant Health’s transplant program. Our team also works with several other regional transplant programs such as Duke, UNC, and MUSC. Our Transplant Care Team provides comprehensive education on kidney transplantation, and helps patients prepare for their transplant. The team also monitors the transplant recipient to ensure the transplant continues to work for many years.
Today, a living or deceased donor can donate a kidney for transplant. However, a living donor kidney presents several advantages. Generally, a living donor kidney transplant has better results and typically lasts longer. It is common for transplant candidates to wait three or more years for a deceased donor kidney. However, the long wait time can be eliminated by a living donor. Plus, as a planned procedure, it can be scheduled when it is best for both the recipient and the donor.
Donors need to be healthy, with two normal kidneys and a blood type compatible to the recipient. To learn more about the Living Donor program, you can visit The National Living Donor Assistance Center, the National Kidney Registry, or call our transplant coordinator at 252-752-8880, ext 265.
Eastern Nephrology Associates has acquired Carolina Kidney & Vascular, PA, with offices in Goldsboro and Clinton, NC.
Carolina Kidney & Vascular was founded by Robert Dunmire, MD, providing services in general, interventional and pediatric nephrology. Also in the practice is general nephrologist Thejaswini "TJ" Kempananjappa Kaggere, MD. The practice currently manages care at ten dialysis centers in the surrounding areas.
Eastern Nephrology will be combining its Goldsboro services with Carolina Kidney and Vascular under the Eastern Nephrology umbrella through offices in Goldsboro and Clinton.
