Kidney Transplant in Iran

Kidney transplant is a transformative solution for people with end-stage renal disease, commonly known as kidney failure, offering a significant improvement in life expectancy and quality of life compared to long-term dialysis. The procedure involves receiving a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor.

Raadina Health facilitates access to high-quality kidney transplants in Iran. We can connect medical tourists with top Iranian surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities, handle all travel arrangements, visa applications, flight bookings, and hotel accommodations, and provide comprehensive support before, during, and after the transplant. 

Looking for kidney treatment in Iran? Connect with the best specialists and receive quality care now!

Is it the Right Choice to Have Kidney Transplant in Iran?

Iran has emerged as a leading destination for kidney transplants, performing over 2,500 procedures annually with remarkable success rates. The country attracts many international patients due to its affordable healthcare system driven by lower operational costs and competitive pricing. Iran boasts state-of-the-art hospitals that rank among the best Kidney transplant hospitals abroad, staffed by skilled surgeons, many of whom have received training abroad and employ cutting-edge surgical techniques.

The country's rigorous donor selection process and excellent post-transplant survival rates—99% at one year and 94% at five years—further enhance its appeal. Importantly, no deaths from these surgeries have been reported. Additionally, Iran offers a rich cultural experience for medical tourists, allowing them to explore historical sites during their recovery.

Why Raadina Health?

Raadina Health specializes in connecting medical tourists with highly skilled kidney specialists and top kidney hospitals in Iran. Our commitment ensures that patients receive exceptional care from state-of-the-art kidney health clinics in Iran equipped with advanced facilities and a track record of successful outcomes. 

We provide comprehensive support for international patients, guiding them through every step of the process, including consultations, visa arrangements, pre- and post-operative care, translation services, and accommodation. Additionally, we offer transparent, all-inclusive kidney transplant packages that encompass all medical expenses, guaranteeing affordability without hidden fees.

Who May Need a Kidney Transplant in Iran?

A kidney transplant is considered for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), also known as kidney failure, when their kidneys are no longer functioning adequately to sustain life. This means their kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood.

Several groups of people may need a kidney transplant:

People with chronic kidney disease (CKD)

This is the most common reason. CKD progresses slowly over time, and if not managed effectively, it can lead to ESRD requiring Kidney Treatment in Iran. Many underlying conditions can cause CKD, including:

• Diabetes: A leading cause of kidney failure;
• High blood pressure (hypertension): Damages blood vessels in the kidneys;
• Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli (filtering units) in the kidneys;
• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): A genetic disorder causing cysts to form on the kidneys;
• Interstitial nephritis: Inflammation of the kidney tissue.

People with acute kidney injury (AKI)

While some cases of AKI resolve, severe or persistent AKI can result in permanent kidney damage requiring a transplant;

People with congenital kidney problems

Some individuals are born with kidney malformations or abnormalities that eventually lead to kidney failure and necessitate a transplant.

What are the Methods for Obtaining a Kidney for Transplant Surgery in Iran?

There are three main methods for obtaining a kidney, including:

• Living Related Donors: This involves a kidney donated by a close relative, such as a parent, sibling, or child. These donors often have a higher chance of compatibility due to shared genetic factors;
• Living Unrelated Donors: Individuals who are not biologically related can also donate kidneys. This includes friends or altruistic donors who voluntarily donate to someone in need.
• Deceased Donor Organs: Kidneys can be obtained from individuals who have been declared brain dead but whose organs are still viable for donation. These donors typically die from conditions like severe trauma, stroke, or brain tumors. The organs are recovered shortly after death to ensure they remain functional.

What are the Legal Requirements for Kidney Transplant in Iran?

According to Iranian law regarding kidney donation, Iranians are prohibited from donating their kidneys to non-Iranian recipients. Consequently, medical tourists seeking a kidney transplant in Iran must have a donor with the same nationality. 

Interestingly, unlike many countries where a familial relationship between the donor and recipient is often mandated, Iran does not impose such a requirement. This allows for greater flexibility in finding suitable donors, as individuals can receive kidneys from friends, acquaintances, or even altruistic donors within the same nationality.

What is the Expected Duration of Stay for Recipients and Donors During Kidney Transplant in Iran?

How to Get Prepared for a Kidney Transplant in Iran?

Preparing for a kidney transplant in Iran, particularly from a deceased donor, requires several essential steps. First, you must be placed on the waiting list of the Organ Donation Network. This involves undergoing comprehensive evaluations to assess your readiness for the procedure.

1- Mental Health Evaluation;

This assesses psychological well-being and social support systems, identifying potential stressors (financial or otherwise) that could impact transplant success. Similar evaluations apply to living donors;

2- Blood Tests;

A series of blood tests will help identify compatible donors, determine your priority on the waiting list, and reduce the risk of organ rejection after a kidney transplant in Iran;

3- Medical Examinations. 

Diagnostic tests before a kidney transplant in Iran are:

• Chest X-ray: to establish a baseline for lung status;
• Renal Nuclear Scan: to evaluate blood flow and function of the transplanted kidney using a radiopharmaceutical dye;
• Kidney Transplant Ultrasound with Doppler that uses sound waves to visualize the kidney and its blood vessels, identifying any abnormalities;
• Kidney Biopsy: to obtain kidney tissue samples, helping diagnose rejection or other issues;
• CT scan/MRI: to provide detailed views of organs and surrounding areas, allowing for better identification of abnormalities;
• Pap smears and mammograms (women) for additional screenings.

How is a Kidney Transplant Process Done in Iran?

The kidney transplant procedure in Iran is performed in a hospital operating room and involves several key steps:

1. Upon arrival, you will change into a hospital gown. An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted, along with catheters, to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure and facilitate blood sampling. These may be placed in your arm, hand, neck, wrist, clavicle, or groin. Any excess hair in the surgical area will be removed, and a urinary catheter will be inserted into your bladder;
2. You will receive general anesthesia to ensure you are unconscious and pain-free during the surgery. A breathing tube will be inserted to assist with ventilation. Throughout the procedure, an anesthesiologist will closely monitor your vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and oxygen levels;
3. The surgeon will make an incision in your lower abdomen, typically on one side. Before implantation, the donated kidney will be thoroughly inspected to ensure its suitability;
4. The donated kidney is then placed in your abdomen on the opposite side of your existing kidneys to facilitate the connection of the ureter to the bladder. The renal artery and vein of the donated kidney will be connected to your external iliac artery and vein. Blood flow will be carefully monitored to confirm proper connections and prevent any bleeding;
5. The ureter, which carries urine from the kidney, is then attached to your bladder;
6. Once all connections are secure, the surgical incision will be closed using sutures or staples. A drainage tube may be inserted to prevent fluid accumulation, and a sterile dressing will be applied to protect the incision site.

What to Expect After Kidney Transplant in Iran?

After undergoing a kidney transplant in Iran, patients are initially placed in a recovery room for close monitoring. Once their vital signs—such as blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration—stabilize and they regain consciousness, they are transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for further observation. During this critical period, kidney specialists in Tehran carefully monitor the patient's condition.

Most patients remain in Tehran Kidney Hospital for several days. This time is essential for tracking vital signs, managing pain, ensuring the new kidney functions properly, and addressing any potential complications after a kidney transplant, such as infections or bleeding. 

If the kidney is sourced from a living donor, it typically begins to function and produce urine immediately after transplantation. However, if the kidney comes from a deceased donor, patients may require temporary dialysis treatment until the new kidney works effectively. A catheter drains urine, and regular blood tests are conducted to assess the kidney's health.

The patient’s diet gradually changes from IV fluids to regular food as recovery progresses. Patients will learn how to care for their selves at home, including taking the anti-rejection medicine, which they need for life. 

Once patients’ vital signs are stable, their transplanted kidney is functioning well, and they no longer need hospitalization, they will be ready to return home.

What is the Kidney Transplant Success Rate in Iran?

Kidney transplant success rates in Iran can be influenced by factors such as the patient’s age, underlying health conditions (like diabetes or hypertension), adherence to post-transplant medication regimens, and the quality of the donor kidney. However, most patients who undergo kidney transplants in Iran can expect their transplanted kidneys to function well for 10 years or more. About 50-60% of transplanted kidneys from living donors and about 40-50% from deceased donors may still function after 10 years. 

Also, the one-year survival rate for a kidney from a living donor is about 99%, and the five-year survival rate is approximately 94%. The one-year survival rate for a kidney from a deceased donor is around 90%, while the five-year survival rate is about 75-80%.

How Much Does Kidney Transplant Surgery Cost in Iran?

Kidney transplant surgery costs are significantly lower in Iran than in many other countries, thanks to factors such as the lower value of the Iranian currency and the relatively low cost of living. A kidney transplant in Iran averages from $12,000 to $15,000. Affordable kidney treatment in Iran, combined with its strong reputation for high-quality medical care, makes it an appealing option for patients looking for excellent treatment and substantial cost savings.

How to Find the Best Kidney Transplant Doctor in Iran?

Finding the best kidney transplant surgeons in Iran is crucial for ensuring a successful procedure and a smooth recovery. If you're considering a kidney transplant in Iran, there are several steps you can take to identify the best specialists and facilities. One of the most effective ways to navigate this process is by partnering with a reputable medical agency in Iran, such as Raadina Health.

Our experts at Raadina Health can significantly simplify your search for the best kidney transplant doctor in Iran. They have established connections with top kidney hospitals in Iran, enabling them to recommend doctors who meet your needs. With its expertise in kidney transplant tourism, the Raadina Health team provides valuable insights into the healthcare system in Iran, ensuring that you are well informed at every step of your kidney transplantation.

Kidney Transplant Specialists at Raadina Health

At Raadina Health, we are proud to work with a team of distinguished kidney doctors in Iran who have years of experience performing successful transplants. From initial evaluation to post-operative support, they offer the best kidney treatment in Iran, personalized to your needs.

What are the Best Kidney Transplant Centers in Iran?

Kidney transplants in Iran are only performed in state hospitals, a policy designed to prevent organ trafficking and guarantee ethical, regulated medical care. 

At Raadina Health, we can connect our international clients to state-of-the-art kidney dialysis centers in Iran equipped with advanced technology and staffed by experienced nephrologists. Our unwavering commitment to quality and patient satisfaction ensures that you receive the best dialysis treatment in Iran.

Kidney Transplant Centers at Raadina Health

By collaborating with the best Iran kidney transplant center, Raadina Health provides remarkable access to cutting-edge services. They utilize the latest advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for international patients.

FAQs on Kidney Transplants in Iran

1. What is the waiting time for a kidney transplant in Iran?

Waiting times can vary significantly, ranging from months to several years, depending on factors such as blood type, the availability of donors, and one's position on the transplant list.

2. Will I need to take medication after a kidney transplant in Iran?

You must take immunosuppressive medications to prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney. This will be a lifelong requirement.

3. What is the life expectancy after a kidney transplant?

Generally, a kidney transplant from a living donor can be expected to function for about 20 to 25 years, whereas a kidney received from a deceased donor typically lasts around 15 to 20 years. However, these durations can vary significantly based on factors such as the ages of both the donor and recipient and any underlying medical conditions that may be present.

4. What is the best age for a kidney transplant?

Most kidney recipients fall within the 45 to 65 age range. However, there is no definitive upper age limit for transplantation. To optimize outcomes, doctors typically prefer matching recipients with donors of a similar age. This approach helps to enhance the chances of a successful transplant and long-term kidney function.

5. Can I live a normal life after a kidney transplant?

Many people lead healthy, active lives after kidney transplantation. However, following your surgeon’s recommendations and attending regular follow-up appointments is important.

6. Can I have a kidney transplant in Iran if I have other health issues?

It depends on the specific health issues and their severity. Conditions like diabetes or heart disease may affect your eligibility for a kidney transplant.

7. What should be done after a kidney transplant rejection?

Kidney transplant rejection requires immediate medical attention. Dialysis will be necessary. If rejection symptoms such as fever and pain occur, the transplanted kidney may need to be removed. The timing of rejection influences the outcome; early rejection (within days) often necessitates removal, while later rejection (after several months) usually presents fewer complications.