After the Transplant
Success Rates
The success rates are very good. The closer the match, the better. Usually the success rate is anywhere from 80% to 95%.
Rejection
Just as our immune system fights the common cold it will also attack anything that is known as foreign. Cells have a memory which knows what is "self" therefore, when presented with something foreign, the immune system will attack which will cause rejection. Rejection is more common in the early months, but may occur any time after the transplant.
Anti-rejection Drugs
Anti-rejection drugs and a combination of other drugs may be used to prevent rejection. These drugs help to block the activity of the immune response and will have to be taken for the rest of the person's life. Studies are continually conducted for new and better anti-rejection drugs for the future.
Signs of rejection may include:
Fever
Pain in the transplant area
Nausea
Swelling
Loss of energy
Weight gain
Diet
A dietitian may assign a meal plan according to the doctor's orders.
Exercise
A lot of sleep may be required right aftr the transplant however the patient will soon have an increase in energy. Light exercise is best at first where there is little conact such as:
walking
swimming
tennis
bicycling
walking
swimming
tennis
bicycling
The doctor will help to decide what is appropriate.
