Inova Transplant Center's kidney and pancreas transplant program was established in 1992 and performs 100 transplants annually. The program offers pediatric and adult patients with end-stage disease the best option for a normal and healthy life, free from dialysis and related complications. In 1992, Inova Transplant Center performed both the first kidney transplant and the first kidney-pancreas transplant in Northern Virginia.
Inova Transplant Center recognizes that transplantation can be an unsettling experience for patients and their families. We strive to help patients resume many of their former activities, and we encourage patients to maximize their quality of life. With these goals in mind, Inova Health System provides a range of services to transplant patients through support groups, direct social work, psychiatric care and educational presentations. These presentations include information about transplant surgery, diet and exercise, and financial considerations.
In addition, pre-transplant patients and their families have the opportunity to speak to other patients who have already been through the transplant process. Patients are given literature about kidney and pancreas transplantation and are encouraged to ask questions and share concerns with the transplant coordinators. The coordinators, as well as nurses, psychiatrists, social workers and attending physicians are all available to provide emotional support to patients and families.
From the moment patients are referred to the program, they are supported by a team of professionals trained to understand and respond to their many needs. The transplant team guides potential candidates through an extensive medical evaluation before accepting them for a transplant procedure.
Once a patient is accepted for transplantation, he/she is listed with the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). While the patient awaits transplantation, the Inova transplant coordinator manages the patient's care with the clinical team. Following transplantation, patients continue to be monitored after they leave Inova Fairfax Hospital. Regular visits are made to Inova Transplant Center to monitor progress and medications.