[Intrafamily kidney transplantation. Investigation of its influence on the donor's life and his or her relationship with the recipient].

INTRODUCTION

Quality of life is a vital aspect to be considered in connection with intrafamily kidney transplantations. It is important that the donor be both physically and mentally well after the donation. It is also crucial that the relationship between the donor and recipient not change for the worse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

45 of 78 donors entered into our investigation. All had donated a kidney to a family member at Odense University Hospital between 1 January 1995 and 7 January 2003. All were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire covering both physical, social and mental issues and the donor's relationship with the recipient.

RESULTS

The vast majority were satisfied with their decision to donate. Their relationship with the recipient was either the same or had improved. The donors had not felt pressured to donate. 25% still had some discomfort/pain, which was mainly from the scar; 47% had not changed mentally; 38% had changed mentally in a positive direction; 91% had not changed socially, but 9% had changed in a negative way. Physically, 82% felt the same as before the donation; 16% were less active physically.

DISCUSSION

Intrafamily kidney transplantation is a good way to help kidney patients. Within the limits of the survey, the risk of suffering a lower quality of life after donating was shown to be low. The discomfort/pain was of limited inconvenience. On the contrary, the investigation showed that most often the donor was getting better mentally and his or her relationship with the recipient had changed for the better. However, there is room for improvement in operative techniques and donor selection.