Doctors perform kidney transplant on awake patient, who is out of hospital in 1 day

Dr. Satish Nadig performed an awake kidney transplant on John Nicholas using spinal anesthesia, allowing him to remain conscious. This method avoids invasive ventilators, shortens recovery time, and eliminates the need for opioid pain medication. Nicholas was discharged after one night, significantly reducing the risk of complications associated with longer hospital stays. Dr. Nadig plans to extend this procedure to patients at higher risk for general anesthesia, opening new possibilities for those previously deemed too risky.

What type of anesthesia was used for John Nicholas's kidney transplant?

• No anesthesia

• Spinal anesthesia

• Local anesthesia

• General anesthesia

What was one of the main benefits of John being awake during his kidney transplant?

• He could eat during the surgery

• He could watch the surgery

• He could choose the music

• He required less pain medication

How long did John Nicholas stay in the hospital after his transplant?

• One night

• Three nights

• One week

• Two weeks

What risks are reduced by a shorter hospital stay after a kidney transplant?

• Kidney failure

• Stroke

• Heart attack

• Infection and bed sores

Who might benefit from the awake kidney transplant procedure in the future?

• Patients who prefer to be awake

• Patients who are allergic to spinal anesthesia

• Patients who are at higher risk for general anesthesia

• Patients with no health issues