Medical Breakthroughs: Patients undergo kidney transplant surgery while awake at Northwestern Medicine

Introduction

In a groundbreaking medical advancement, surgeons at Northwestern Medicine have successfully performed a kidney transplant while the patient was awake. This innovative procedure marks a significant shift in the field of organ transplantation, offering patients a safer and more efficient option. We take a closer look at the remarkable story of John Nicholas, the first known patient to undergo this procedure, and explore the implications of this breakthrough.

The Groundbreaking Surgery

On a recent day, a team of skilled surgeons at Northwestern Medicine performed a kidney transplant surgery unlike any other. The patient, 28-year-old John Nicholas of Chicago, received a life-saving kidney from one of his childhood friends. What made this surgery extraordinary was that John remained awake throughout the entire procedure.

The Anesthesia Dilemma

One of the primary concerns in traditional kidney transplant surgeries is the use of general anesthesia. While effective, general anesthesia poses risks, especially for patients with pre-existing medical conditions. For instance, older patients may experience cognitive impairment, heart issues, and delayed gastrointestinal recovery. The awake kidney transplant procedure, on the other hand, uses a spinal epidural anesthesia, which numbs the lower half of the body without rendering the patient unconscious.

The Patient's Experience

John Nicholas's journey began several years ago when he started experiencing kidney issues. Initially diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 16, his kidney function began to decline. Despite managing his condition with medication, he eventually required a kidney transplant. After moving to Chicago and establishing care at Northwestern Medicine, John's condition worsened, necessitating a transplant.

John’s decision to undergo the awake kidney transplant was not taken lightly. Despite having no risks or phobias related to general anesthesia, he was eager to participate in a medical first. This willingness to push the boundaries of medical science has paved the way for future patients who may face similar challenges.

The Procedure

The surgery took less than two hours, and John was able to watch his new kidney being prepared before it was placed inside his body. He recalled asking about the timing of the spinal anesthesia kick-in and being reassured that everything was progressing smoothly.

Benefits of the Procedure

The awake kidney transplant offers several benefits:

• Increased Access: This method provides a safer option for patients at high risk for general anesthesia, such as older individuals or those with cardiopulmonary disease.
• Reduced Risks: By avoiding the risks associated with general anesthesia, patients can minimize complications related to intubation and ventilation.
• Enhanced Recovery: Patients can recover more comfortably at home, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays.
• Improved Patient Experience: The ability to remain awake during the procedure allows patients to be more aware of their surroundings and the medical team’s actions, improving overall patient experience.

The Future of Transplantation

Northwestern Medicine is now establishing the AWAKE Program (Accelerated Surgery Without General Anesthesia in Kidney Transplantation) for patients who can benefit from this type of procedure. This program aims to make kidney transplantation more accessible and safer for a wider range of patients.

A New Standard in Transplantation

Satish Nadig, MD, PhD, the transplant surgeon and director of the Northwestern Medicine Comprehensive Transplant Center, emphasized the significance of this breakthrough. “It really opens up a whole new door and is another tool in our toolbelt for the field of transplantation,” he said.

Second Successful Transplant

Just a few months after John’s surgery, Northwestern Medicine performed another successful awake kidney transplant. This time, the patient was 74-year-old Harry Stackhouse of Zion, Illinois. Harry received a kidney from his daughter, Trewaunda, and was discharged 36 hours after surgery.

Harry’s story highlights the versatility of the awake kidney transplant procedure. Despite his age and previous health issues, including a diagnosis of COVID-19 and severe renal failure, Harry was able to undergo the surgery without the risks associated with general anesthesia. His daughter, Trewaunda, played a crucial role in convincing him to undergo the transplant, which ultimately improved his quality of life.

Conclusion

The awake kidney transplant procedure at Northwestern Medicine represents a significant advancement in organ transplantation. By offering patients a safer and more efficient option, this breakthrough can improve the lives of countless individuals awaiting kidney transplants. John Nicholas’s journey serves as an inspiration to future patients, demonstrating the potential of medical innovation to transform lives.

As Northwestern Medicine continues to push the boundaries of medical science, it is clear that this breakthrough is just the beginning. With the establishment of the AWAKE Program, more patients can expect to benefit from this revolutionary procedure, paving the way for a future where kidney transplantation is safer, more efficient, and more accessible than ever before.

References

• Northwestern surgeons discuss awake kidney transplant | full video
• Northwestern Medicine surgeons perform awake kidney transplant ...
• Awake Kidney Transplantation: A Revolution in Renal Care
• Northwestern Medicine performs second awake kidney transplant procedure