KNH Responds After Being Embroiled in Kidney Rejection Saga
The woman, who had received the kidney from her brother, had already filed a police report at Capitol Hill Police Station in Nairobi. Her family demanded answers on why the transplant failed so soon after surgery.
Hospital Details Patient’s Journey
In a statement, KNH CEO William Sigilai explained the events leading to the tragic outcome.
“Our attention has been drawn to an article regarding a female patient seeking answers on a kidney transplant donated by their brother at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH),” Sigilai said.
He revealed that the patient had been diagnosed with kidney failure in 2022 and had undergone regular dialysis at another facility.
By August 2024, she and her brother visited KNH’s transplant clinic. After professional counselling, evaluations, and pre-transplant investigations, they were admitted for surgery on February 12, 2025.
Tragedy Strikes in Theatre
Sigilai disclosed that trouble began immediately after the operation.
“The transplanted kidney did not start functioning, and post-transplant assessment showed reduced blood flow,” he stated.
Doctors in theatre examined the kidney and concluded it was not viable.
“Laboratory analysis confirmed the loss was due to a blood clot in the transplanted kidney, a recognised but rare complication in kidney transplantation,” the hospital added.
The kidney was removed to protect her health.
After Surgery and Recovery
The patient was discharged on March 5 with a plan to resume dialysis and attend regular check-ups.
On March 11, she returned to the transplant clinic for a review and was advised on further follow-up care.
KNH stressed that kidney rejection is an uncommon but documented risk in transplant procedures.
“It accounts for eight per cent of all cases worldwide,” the hospital explained.
Track Record and Reassurance
The case has, however, stirred public concern, with many calling for greater transparency in organ transplant procedures.
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KNH Responds After Being Embroiled in Kidney Rejection Saga
