How Long Is Kidney Transplant Surgery?
Kidney transplant surgery lasts between four and six hours.
Questions or concerns about your child's kidney transplant UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh? Call the kidney transplant team at 412-692-5182.
What Happens During My Child's Kidney Transplant Surgery?
During your child's kidney transplant, the surgeon will:
- Find a good blood source for the kidney.
- Attach the donated kidney to this blood source in your child's belly.
The surgeon won't remove your child's failing kidneys unless they're causing further problems.
Depending on your child's age and size, you may be able to feel the kidney in the belly.
The surgeon might need to place the new kidney closer to the skin. If so, your child will wear a guard to make sure they don't bump or bruise it.
If your child has a living kidney donor
If a living donor supplies the kidney, the donor will have surgery at UPMC Montefiore.
We'll transport the donor's kidney to UPMC Children's Hospital for your child's surgery.
Most living kidney donors can leave the hospital within a day or two.
