Risk factors and consequences of delayed graft function in renal transplantation

Abstract

Background/Aim: Delayed graft function (DGF) continues to be an important complication in patients who underwent kidney transplantation. Our study aimed to determine the rate of DGF and risk factors after renal transplantation at our center and explore DGF-related complications and outcomes. Methods: Patients over 18 years of age who underwent kidney transplantation between January 2015 and January 2020 were evaluated. DGF was defined as the need for at least one dialysis session within the first week after renal transplantation. The factors affecting DGF were analyzed as the primary outcome, and discharge and additional complications, as the secondary outcomes. Results: Data of 206 patients who underwent renal transplantation were analyzed, and delayed graft function (the need for at least one dialysis session within the first week after renal transplantation) was observed at a rate of 20.9%. A statistically significant relationship was observed between DGF and presence of diabetes mellitus, cadaver graft transplantation, higher cold ischemia time, need for postoperative erythrocyte suspension and fresh frozen plasma transfusion (P<0.05 for all). Graft loss was significantly higher in patients with DGF (P=0.001). Conclusion: After renal transplantation, delayed graft function continues to occur at a high rate. Prevention of delayed graft function development will reduce graft loss rates.