Surgical Care

Surgical Care

The work your kidneys do is referred to as "renal function." People who have two healthy kidneys have 100 percent of their renal function, but this is really more than is necessary. That's why those who are born with only one kidney or who donate a kidney are still able to live a normal life. However, many with reduced renal function have a kidney disease. When you have less than 25 percent renal function, serious health problems result. If renal function drops below 10 to 15 percent, you will be unable to survive without some form of renal replacement therapy - either dialysis or transplantation.

Total or nearly total and/or permanent kidney failure is called end-stage renal disease (ESRD). When this happens, your body fills with extra water and waste in a condition called "uremia." Your hands and feet may swell, and you may feel tired and weak because your body needs clean blood to function properly. Untreated uremia may lead to seizures or coma - and will ultimately result in death. If your kidneys stop working completely, you will need to consider dialysis or surgical services. Deciding which treatment is best for you won't be easy. Depending upon your medical condition, lifestyle and personal preferences, you will want to discuss all your options with one of our specialists in order to determine the best treatment for you.