Kidney Transplant

If you have kidney failure, you may need dialysis to help cleanse the body of toxins. Although lifesaving, dialysis can be time-consuming and stressful. A kidney transplant at UNC Medical Center can make dialysis or other treatments a memory so you can look forward to the future.

Since 1968, we have completed more than 2,300 kidney and kidney-pancreas transplants, giving us a high level of skill and experience. Our transplant team works closely with specialists at the UNC Kidney Center. We ensure that you feel comfortable and informed during each step of the process. This kidney program is considered among the country’s best according to U.S. News & World Report.

Kidney Transplants at UNC Medical Center: Why Choose Us?

People come to UNC Medical Center for our expertise performing transplants and our hands-on, compassionate care. Our highly regarded transplant team provides skilled, personalized care, embracing you and your family like one of our own.

You benefit from:

• Personal attention: We build a strong relationship with you, learning about your physical health and wishes. We use this information to tailor a care plan specific to your needs.
• Multiple-organ transplants: We have the expertise to transplant a donor kidney along with other organs, such as pancreas, heart, lungs or liver. Find out more about getting a kidney transplant.
• Dedicated transplant coordinators: We pair you with a different kidney transplant coordinator for each unique step of the transplant journey. You have 24/7 access to a coordinator as you prepare for, receive and recover from a kidney transplant.
• Ongoing care: To reduce the risk of organ rejection, we work with your primary care doctor to conduct appropriate tests and offer treatments when needed.
• Convenient medical services: You can receive pre- and post-transplant kidney care at UNC clinics in Asheville and Raleigh. Residents of western North Carolina can undergo most tests before and after transplant at Pardee UNC Health Care. We also have relationships with dialysis centers throughout the state for those waiting for a kidney transplant.
• Access to clinical trials: Our doctors are actively involved in research, including drug trials, for kidney failure, kidney disease and kidney transplants. You may be able to participate in a clinical trial, receiving the newest treatments before they are widely available.

Expanded Kidney Transplant Options

We want you to get a kidney fast, while you are strong enough to undergo the procedure and recover more easily. To speed the process, we offer:

• Living kidney donor program
• National Kidney Registry
• Blood type incompatible transplants
• Hepatitis C transplants

Living kidney donor program

A relative, friend, loved one or stranger may volunteer to donate a kidney to you through our living kidney donor program. We were the first in the state to use a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure for the donor’s surgery. This approach provides a faster, easier recovery for the donor.

National Kidney Registry

UNC Medical Center was the first in North Carolina to participate in the National Kidney Registry^®. This program matches you and an incompatible living donor with another paired living donor and recipient who are a better transplant match.

Blood type incompatible transplants

We were the first in the state to offer blood type incompatible transplants using desensitization techniques. This process enables you to receive a kidney from a donor whose blood type is different from yours.

Hepatitis C transplants

With your consent, we can transplant a kidney from a donor who has hepatitis C. You undergo treatment after transplant to rid your body of the virus. You should not experience any long-term adverse health effects.

Kidney Transplant Services

We are committed to providing you and your family with the support you need through this challenging time. We offer a variety of services to ensure transplant success:

• Transplant coordinators to guide you through the transplant process
• Dedicated patient support team to assist with services such as billing, accommodations, mental health counseling and nutrition counseling
• Transplant education classes, so you and your loved ones know what to expect before, during and after transplant
• Operating room equipped with the latest technology for transplant surgery
• Dedicated transplant intensive care unit staffed by nurses who have advanced training in kidney disease and transplants
• Physical therapy, either through UNC Health Care’s rehabilitation services providers or your community provider, to improve strength and stamina before and after surgery

Pediatric Kidney Transplants

If your child needs a kidney transplant, you probably have many questions. Our dedicated pediatric kidney transplant team is here for you. We provide excellent care for your child, and we are available to address any concerns or questions you have. When your child is ready, we help with the transition into our adult transplant program. Learn more about our pediatric kidney transplant program.

After Your Transplant

Contact Us

Call (984) 974-5200 to find out more about kidney transplants at UNC Medical Center. Learn more about receiving or donating a kidney by reading our Kidney Transplant Patient Handbook [PDF].