Post-Op: Complications
Most transplants do well. Problems are easier to manage when caught early. If something feels wrong, call—early beats perfect.
Rejection (immune response)
- What it is: your immune system attacks the kidney; can happen early or years later.
- How it’s found: rising creatinine, urine changes, symptoms; sometimes a biopsy confirms.
- Treatment: adjust meds; some cases need short infusions or a brief hospital stay.
- Report fast: fever, new pain over the kidney, swelling, less urine, sudden weight gain.
Infections
- 0–1 month: surgical/line infections and hospital germs.
- 1–6 months: higher risk for certain viruses and “opportunistic” infections; call for fever, persistent cough/diarrhea.
- After 6 months: community infections (flu, COVID, stomach bugs) are more common—stay up to date on vaccines and call early for antivirals if exposed.
Medicine side effects
- Vitals & labs: higher blood pressure, higher blood sugar/new diabetes, cholesterol changes.
- Day-to-day: tremor, headache, stomach upset/diarrhea, sleep or mood shifts (especially with steroids).
- Longer term: thinner bones—ask about vitamin D/calcium and screening.
- Interactions: some antibiotics/antifungals, seizure meds, and certain citrus (e.g., grapefruit) can change levels—always check before new meds/supplements.
Surgical & urologic issues
- Ureter problems: leaks or narrowings can cause pain, swelling, or low urine; usually fixable with procedures.
- Fluid collections: seroma/lymphocele near the kidney may need drainage.
- Wound issues & hernias: redness, drainage, or bulges—report promptly.
Clots & heart/lungs
- Blood clots (DVT/PE): calf pain/swelling or sudden shortness of breath needs urgent care.
- Heart risk: blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes control still matter after transplant.
When to call
- Call your clinic promptly: fever > 100.4–101°F, chills, worsening cough, vomiting that prevents meds, new/worsening pain over the kidney, less urine, sudden weight gain.
- Call 911 / go to ER: chest pain, trouble breathing, one-sided leg swelling/pain, severe dehydration/confusion, stroke-like symptoms.
Questions to ask: If my labs rise, what tests come next? What’s my “call right away” list? Which meds or foods can change my drug levels?
This page is educational and can’t cover every case. Your care team will personalize prevention and treatment.