Living Kidney Donor

Any person who is healthy can be a living donor.

People choose to donate a kidney for lots of reasons. It is usually because they wish to help a loved one who is unwell. Some people just want to help others. You can donate a kidney to a stranger.  You do not need to be a blood relative of someone to be a living donor.

You will need to fill in a questionnaire so we can learn more about you and why you want to donate.

We will talk to you about the process, how long it takes and what to expect. We will also talk to you about the risks of surgery and living with one kidney. 

We’ll take blood tests and check your tissue type to see if you’re a match for your intended recipient.

If you’re not a match, you can still donate through the UK Kidney Sharing Scheme. This means your kidney could help someone else, and your recipient would receive a kidney from another donor that’s a better match. If this happens, we’ll explain the process in detail. The assessment steps after this remain the same.

We will do lots of health checks on you. These will include heart tests (an ECG and an echocardiogram) and a chest X-ray.

If these are ok, you’ll meet a kidney consultant who will examine you and explain any risks. If it’s safe and you want to continue, we’ll do a detailed scan of your kidneys and their blood supply.

The whole process usually takes up to 6 months. Sometimes we find health issues that need further tests. This rarely means you can’t donate.

If you’re fit and suitable, you will meet the surgical team at the Regional Transplant Centre. This is at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

The surgery is keyhole which means you will have a little scar. The surgeon makes 3–4 small cuts in your tummy. They use a camera to see inside and remove the kidney.

The operation takes 3–4 hours. Afterwards, you may have some pain, which will improve over a few days. Most people feel some discomfort for 1–2 weeks, and full recovery can take up to 8 weeks.

You’ll normally stay in hospital at The Freeman for 2–3 days. As the cuts heal, they may feel itchy or tender, and some people notice muscle twinges for a few months.

Most donors get back to living a normal and healthy life. You should talk to your doctor if you are worried about any personal risks. You should also talk to your employer as you will need time to recover.

You will have a check-up about 8 weeks after surgery. The it will be once a year to check your blood tests, blood pressure, and urine.

• Driving - you can drive again when you feel ready, but we suggest waiting 4–6 weeks. Long journeys may be uncomfortable at first.
• Exercise - start slowly and build this up over time. It is important for you to stay active and keep fit and well after donation.
• Sex - there’s no direct risk. You can have sex when you feel comfortable, though it may take a few months to feel fully recovered.

We know that it can feel like a scary and emotional thing to do. We are here to support you every step of the way. Giving a kidney is an incredible gift, but it is normal to have questions or feel doubt. If you ever feel overwhelmed, we can arrange psychological support for you.

Rember, you are always in control.

At any stage, you can choose not to donate. Our team will support you without judgment and help you make an informed decision.

Kidney donation saves and changes lives, but it is a big decision for you as well.

We can also connect you with peer support. This means talking to someone who has donated a kidney and been through this before. They will know what you’re going through and what it feels like.