About Our Living Kidney Donor Transplant Program

Rhode Island Hospital established its transplant program in 1997 and quickly became one of the largest in New England. We have performed more than 1,000 kidney transplants. Our staff comprises some of the pioneers and leaders in the field of transplantation.

Rhode Island Hospital offers several options for living kidney donation. These include:

• Direct donation (The recipient is known to the donor.)
• Non-direct/altruistic kidney donation
• Donation for incompatible pairs

Who Qualifies for a Kidney Transplant?

Presently kidney transplantation is a treatment option for those suffering from end-stage renal diseases who wish to be relieved from the constraints of dialysis. This treatment choice improves quality of life by correcting complications of kidney failure that are not fully reversed by dialysis. It also offers the best chance of rehabilitation, particularly for those with kidney failure caused by diabetes.

The Live Donor Program

The live donor program was initiated due to the growing demand for kidneys. The transplant waiting list has grown significantly, whereas the number of cadaver donations has increased only slightly. The quality of cadaver kidneys has also diminished due to the expansion of the donor pool in an effort to accommodate the growing demand. Since outcomes are better for those who receive their kidney from a live donor, Rhode Island Hospital has a sincere interest in increasing the number of live donors.

Approximately one half of the transplanted kidneys at Rhode Island Hospital are from live donors. Our surgery outcomes are consistent with national standards as reported by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS).

Exploring Kidney Donation Options

When considering the option of kidney donation, you will have several questions. Our philosophy is that you should have all the information needed to make an informed decision that is right for you. Donating a kidney is a major personal decision. You should know as much as possible about the risks and rewards for both you and your recipient.

Our online donor guide is designed to provide information about the donation evaluation, testing, surgery, recovery and costs.

If you are interested in becoming a donor or you have any questions regarding our program please call 401-444-8562 or 1-888-444-0102.