Kidney Transplantation in India: Affordable and High-Quality Treatment

Kidney transplantation is widely recognized as the best treatment option for patients with end-stage renal disease. Kidney transplant operation involves replacing the damaged kidney with a healthy organ taken from a living or deceased donor. MedTour has extensive experience in medical tourism and collaborates with the world’s leading clinics specializing in organ transplantation. In this article, we will explore how kidney transplant surgery is performed in India and the cost of kidney transplant procedure​ in Indian hospitals.

What is a kidney transplantation in India?

The first successful kidney transplant surgery in India was performed on February 2, 1971, at the Christian Medical College, Vellore, by a team led by surgeon M. Rao and nephrologist K. V. Johny. This happened 17 years after the first kidney transplant procedure between identical twins in Boston, USA. The successful operation marked the beginning of a new era in the treatment of kidney diseases in India.

There are currently more than 600 kidney transplant centers operating in the country. 75 of them operate in public hospitals, while the rest belong to private clinics. In 2023, India recorded 13,642 kidney transplants (11,791 from living donors and 1,851 from deceased donors) were performed in India.

There are several reasons why patients choose India for kidney transplantation, including:

• highly qualified nephrologists and transplant surgeons with over 10 years of experience;
• modern technical equipment and the use of advanced technologies;
• English speaking medical staff;
• low prices for medications (India is the world`s largest exporter of medicines);
• more affordable cost of kidney compared to Western countries;
• no waiting list for patients receiving an organ from a living donor.

All these advantages make India a top destination for high-quality, fast, and cost-effective kidney transplant procedure.

Who needs a kidney transplantation?

There are several medical conditions that indicate the need for a kidney transplant surgery. Clinical guidelines may vary slightly between countries, however the list of main indications includes:

• end-stage chronic kidney disease (glomerular filtration rate less than 15 ml/min);
• dialysis-dependent renal failure;
• progressive kidney function decline (glomerular filtration rate – 15-30 ml/min);
• severe diabetic nephropathy;
• polycystic kidney disease with marked loss of renal function;
• congenital abnormalities leading to progressive kidney disease;
• systemic diseases with severe kidney damage (e. g., lupus, vasculitis);
• certain forms of nephrotic syndrome that are resistant to therapy;
• bilateral nephrosclerosis.

Criteria that a patient must meet for a kidney transplant

A patient must meet specific criteria to be considered for a kidney transplant in India:

• no active infections, cancer, or other severe health issues that could impact the outcome of the surgery;
• no history of drug or alcohol abuse or mental disorders that could interfere with post-transplant care;
• no severe heart or lung diseases that could increase surgical risks;
• a compatible blood type with the donor;
• an available donor who is willing and medically fit to donate a kidney;
• sufficient financial and social support to cover the costs of the kidney transplant operation and successfully complete the rehabilitation period.

Legal aspects of kidney transplantation in India

A kidney donor can be either a living or deceased donor. However, most kidney transplant surgeries in India are performed using organs from living donors. Only a patient’s relative, such a spouse, parent, child, brother, or sister, are legally allowed to donate a kidney. Related donors must obtain a hospital committee’s approval confirming their relationship with the recipient and their consent to donation. If the donor is not a close relative, the patient must obtain special legal permission from the committee for kidney transplant procedure​.

How is kidney transplant procedure performed in India?

India ranks second in the world for the number of kidney transplants performed, making the procedure highly refined and standardized in local clinics. Treatment includes the following steps:

• Assessment of the patient’s health status. Before the kidney transplant operation, a patient undergoes a comprehensive examination, which includes chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound and, if necessary, other diagnostic exams.
• Assessment of the donor’s health status. A donor undergoes a full medical assessment to confirm that a person is in good health and is eligible to donate a kidney.
• Kidney transplant procedure​. The operation lasts approximately two to three hours. The surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen, places the donor kidney into the abdominal cavity, and connects the blood vessels and ureter of the new organ to the bladder. The damaged kidney is usually not removed unless it causes complications.
• Postoperative care. A patient remains in the hospital until their condition stabilizes. Regular check-ups are carried out after discharge. The doctor prescribes immunosuppressants and antibiotics to prevent organ rejection and infections.

Previously, kidney transplant surgeries in India were performed using open surgery. However, by 2000, many medical centers had switched to laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. It is a minimally invasive procedure for kidney donors, which has now become the standard practice in most Indian transplant centres.

Kidney transplantation cost in India

The cost of a kidney transplantation includes:

• pre-transplant evaluation and diagnostic tests;
• medical examination of the donor;
• expenses directly related to the operation, including the surgeon’s fee;
• hospitalization costs;
• cost of medications and dressings;
• Post-transplant monitoring and follow-up tests.

In addition to direct costs, patients should also consider indirect expenses such as travel, accommodation, and transportation.

The cost of a kidney transplant in India is significantly lower than in Western countries. On average, the kidney transplant procedure​ will cost between $16,000 and $20,000.

Kidney transplant cost in other countries:

• Spain – $66,000;
• Great Britain – $95,250 (in private clinics);
• USA – $230,000.

Thus, the cost of kidney transplant in India is much more affordable. At the same time, the quality of medicine in the country is at a fairly high level.

Where is kidney transplant performed in India?

The MedTour team has selected for you the best Indian hospitals specializing in kidney transplantation.

Max Healthcare Clinics Network

Max Healthcare is a leading medical center in India with over 20 years of experience in the field of kidney transplantation. This network of clinics is among the best medical centers in the country for organ transplants in both adults and children, specializing in the treatment of the most complex cases of kidney failure.

Max Healthcare employs 30 highly qualified specialists, including world-class nephrologists, urologists, and transplant surgeons. Each year they provide care for over 15,000 patients with kidney disease.

The clinic offers comprehensive transplantation programs:

• living donor kidney transplant;
• deceased donor kidney transplant (largest program in North India);
• ABO-incompatible kidney transplants;
• pediatric kidney transplant surgery;
• robot-assisted nephrectomy for donor;
• re-transplantation​ and preemptive transplants.

The success rates of kidney transplant surgeries at Max Healthcare in India are on par with leading global standards. Many patients who underwent surgery 15-20 years ago still have fully functional kidneys, which indicates the high effectiveness of the treatment carried out here.

Apollo Hospitals

Apollo Indraprastha Hospital provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to kidney transplantation. The coordinated work of a team of nephrologists, urologists, and transplant surgeons ensures optimal outcomes, even in the most complex clinical cases.

The hospital actively uses laparoscopic donor nephrectomy, a minimally invasive technique that significantly reduces post-operative recovery time and minimizes donor discomfort. The clinic’s doctors pay special attention to expanding transplantation options for patients with rare blood types.

Apollo Clinic is a recognized leader in ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation. This technique allows patients to receive transplants even when their blood type does not match the donor’s. This technique significantly reduces waiting time for patients without a compatible donor.

Fortis Hospitals

Fortis Hospitals has earned a reputation for exceptional results in kidney transplantation. The clinic has performed over 2,500 successful kidney transplant operations with an efficiency rate of 95%, which exceeds many international standards.

The transplant program is headed by Dr. Sunil Kumar, who has over 15 years of experience and has performed over 1,500 successful transplants. Fortis Clinic specialists in India perform transplants both living and deceased donor transplants, including cases with ABO incompatibility.

The clinic’s priority is to ensure patient comfort and reduce the rehabilitation period. For this purpose, minimally invasive surgical techniques are actively used. Particular attention is paid to post-operative monitoring and long-term follow-up to ensure stable graft function.

Artemis Hospital

Artemis Hospital is a modern medical center with an advanced kidney transplant department. The clinic is equipped with the latest medical technology and follows innovative treatment protocols that meet international standards.

The Artemis transplant program includes pre-operative evaluation using advanced diagnostic techniques, high-precision surgical intervention, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. The hospital specializes in transplants from living donors and is actively developing a program for transplants from deceased donors.

A special feature of Artemis is its personalized approach to each patient and a multi-level quality control system at all stages of treatment. The hospital maintains active international collaborations, integrating the latest global transplant techniques to ensure world-class patient care.

Manipal Hospitals Network

Manipal Hospitals is the leader in kidney transplantation in South India. Among the significant achievements of the medical center are:

• First deceased donor kidney transplant in Karnataka;
• a unique dual kidney transplant from a pediatric donor to an adult recipient;
• over 1500 successfully performed kidney transplants;
• South India’s first single-port laparoscopic donor nephrectomy performed through the umbilical region without visible abdominal scars.

Manipal Hospital in Bangalore has been providing kidney transplant surgery since 1991. The center’s structure includes a specialized immunology laboratory for HLA typing and Cross Matching – critically important studies for successful transplantation. Under the guidance of highly qualified nephrologists and transplant surgeons, the hospital provides medical care in accordance with advanced treatment protocols and international quality standards.

Pre-kidney transplant diagnostics in India

Before the kidney transplant operation, both the recipient and donor undergo a comprehensive examination. It is necessary to confirm their compatibility and exclude possible complications. The main diagnostic steps include:

• blood tests (determination of blood type and checking ABO & HLA compatibility);
• cross-match test (mixing donor and recipient blood samples to detect possible immune reactions);
• biochemical blood analysis;
• kidney biopsy (performed on the donor to confirm organ health);
• general urine analysis;
• electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography;
• chest X-ray;
• Ultrasound or CT scan (to assess blood flow in the area where the kidney will be transplanted and to clarify the location of the organs);
• infection screening (tests for hepatitis B and C, HIV, syphilis, tuberculosis, etc.);
• immunological tests (assessment of antibody levels to predict the risk of rejection).

These tests help ensure that the donor and recipient are medically fit for the transplant and that the transplanted kidney will function properly after surgery.

Post-operative care for kidney transplant patients

After a successful kidney transplant in India, patients are required to stay in the country for 6-8 weeks for comprehensive post-operative monitoring under the supervision of a nephrologist. This period is critical to ensure the successful functioning of the transplanted kidney and to reach a stable condition before returning to their home country.

Basic principles of post-operative care

Long-term functionality and preservation of a transplanted kidney directly depend on strict adherence to medical recommendations and recovery protocols. The post-operative care plan includes:

• taking immunosuppressive medications according to the prescribed regimen;
• regular monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs;
• adherence to a specialized diet tailored for the post-transplant period;
• maintaining proper hydration;
• avoiding smoking and other harmful substances;
• adhering to personal hygiene requirements;
• timely vaccination according to an individual schedule;
• minimization of exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Laboratory monitoring

Regular laboratory diagnostics are a mandatory part of the post-transplant period. These include blood and urine tests, and other assessments to evaluate kidney function. Early detection of any abnormalities allows for timely adjustment in the treatment plan.

Long-term follow-up

After returning home, patients have remote access to consultations with Indian nephrologists regarding any concerns related to the transplanted kidney. Strict compliance with medical recommendations is a key factor in ensuring the long-term functionality of the transplanted kidney for many years.

Frequently asked questions about kidney transplant in India

Is it possible to get a kidney transplantation in India without a living donor?

Yes, kidney transplant surgery is possible even in the absence of a living donor. In such cases, patients can receive a kidney from a deceased donor through the government’s organ allocation system or private hospitals participating in transplant programs. However, this process may take time due to high demand and compatibility requirements.

How long does a transplanted kidney last?

A transplanted kidney can function for a long time with proper post-operative care. Max Healthcare has patients with functioning transplants from surgeries that were performed 15-20 years ago.

Is repeat kidney transplant possible in India?

Yes, repeat kidney transplantation is possible. Many Indian hospitals, including Max Healthcare, Fortis, and Apollo, specialize in repeat transplants for patients who need to replace a previous transplant.

Reviews of Kidney Transplantation in India

Patients who have undergone kidney transplantation in India speak positively about the high level of professionalism and care provided by the doctors. Physicians continue to support their patients even after returning home through video consultations. Indian clinic websites feature numerous grateful reviews from people who, thanks to Indian doctors, have been given a chance at a healthy life.

We published a review from a 45 year old patient from Liberia, who suffered from end stage kidney disease. Galima Bismill shared that due to high blood pressure, he felt extremely unwell, and his doctor recommended dialysis. However, over time, the treatment stopped helping. Doctors advised the patient to contact Max Healthcare clinic. By the time he arrived in India, his condition was critical – he had swelling, high blood pressure, and a lung infection. After treating the associated conditions, Indian doctors performed a kidney transplant. The patient’s sister became the donor. Despite the fact that it was a rather complicated operation, the man is now doing well. He recovers quickly and sincerely thanks the clinic’s doctors for saving his life.

If you or a close one is in need of a kidney transplant, call or write to us. A qualified MedTour coordinating physician will provide a free consultation on all questions that arise, help you select a suitable clinic and physician, and also assist in arranging your treatment.