What are the Hospitalization and Surgery Like ?
Those who are having a transplant from a friend or family member will be able to schedule their transplant at a time convenient for the donor and the recipient. For someone on the cadaveric transplant list, the call to go to the hospital for a transplant may come at any time. Before you have your transplant you will have blood tests, a chest x-ray, and an EKG. If you have an active infection or any other significant health problem, the transplant may have to be postponed or cancelled. You will have an IV started to give you fluids since you are not allowed to eat or drink anything. After you arrive in the operating room, you will have a blood pressure cuff applied and you will be placed on a heart monitor. Recipients will have a large central vein IV placed and a foley catheter inserted once they are asleep. This IV will be used for several days to administer anti-rejection medication. An incision is made in the lower abdomen. The surgical team will then attach the artery and vein of y
