Semmelweis University Sets Record with Living Donor Kidney Transplants
In 2025, Semmelweis University’s Department of Surgery, Transplantation and Gastroenterology (STéG) performed 45 living donor kidney transplants, marking a significant milestone in Hungary’s transplant program. This achievement represents a dramatic increase from just 20 procedures in 2015, demonstrating the university’s growing expertise and the increasing acceptance of living donation in Hungarian society.
The Human Impact Behind the Numbers
Behind every transplant statistic lies a powerful human story. Dr. Katalin Lakatos and her husband Károly exemplify the life-changing potential of living donor transplantation. Diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease in her early adulthood, Katalin’s condition gradually worsened until a mandatory medical examination revealed end-stage renal disease with an eGFR value of just 20.
Rather than face dialysis, Katalin received a kidney from her husband Károly. The successful transplant, performed on their son’s ninth birthday in May 2025, immediately restored kidney function. Today, Katalin lives and works under regular medical supervision while Károly has returned to his career and competitive sports. Both now volunteer with transplant foundations to support others facing similar decisions.
Factors Driving the Transplant Increase
Dr. János Balázs Kovács, surgeon and Assistant Professor at STéG, identifies several key factors behind the rising numbers. Social acceptance of living donation has noticeably increased over the past decade. The department now examines approximately 100-110 donor-recipient pairs annually, allowing for predictable scheduling of one to two procedures per week.
Donor safety remains paramount throughout the examination process. Dr. Orsolya Cseprekál, Assistant Professor and nephrology specialist, emphasizes that donation only proceeds when long-term health risks are minimal. While serious metabolic disorders or organ damage are excluding factors, many individuals with minor health variations can safely donate.
Technological Advancements Enhancing Outcomes
Modern imaging and surgical planning have significantly improved transplant safety and effectiveness. Each living donor procedure begins with CT angiography, creating high-resolution 3D reconstructions that enable precise surgical planning and mapping of vascular structures. This technology eliminates unexpected anatomical variations during surgery.
Robot-assisted surgery represents another milestone in transplant technology. Associate Professor Dr. László Piros, specially trained in robotic procedures, has performed multiple kidney extractions using the da Vinci Surgical System. While laparoscopic techniques remain the gold standard, robotic surgery offers greater precision, better visualization, and more ergonomic working conditions, indirectly increasing donor safety.
Coordinated Care and Patient Journey
Anikó Maléth, patient coordinator, highlights the importance of well-organized patient journeys. Tests are conducted over four to five visits, with additional examinations performed near patients’ homes. This approach respects donors’ time, as they are typically healthy, active individuals who must take time off work for appointments.
The success of living donor kidney transplantation depends on close cooperation between surgeons, nephrologists, anesthesiologists, radiologists, coordinators, and nurses. This multidisciplinary teamwork ensures optimal timing, rapid information flow, and minimized complications throughout the entire process from initial examination to post-operative care.
Expanding Opportunities Through Innovation
The launch of Hungary’s kidney paired donation program promises to further increase living donor transplants. This innovative approach allows immunologically incompatible donor-recipient pairs to exchange organs with other pairs, even involving multiple pairs simultaneously. The program is particularly valuable for patients who have waited extended periods due to antibody-related barriers.
Public Awareness and Future Growth
Experts agree that strengthening public awareness remains crucial for expanding living donor transplantation. Unlike deceased donation, living donations typically originate from family members and friends rather than patients directly requesting organs. Raising awareness in nephrology clinics, dialysis centers, and through media channels is essential for continued growth.
Based on clinical experience and research data, living donor kidney transplantation offers the best option for end-stage renal disease at any age. It provides superior quality of life and significantly longer survival compared to long-term dialysis. However, program success depends on long-term follow-up, multidisciplinary teamwork, and adequate human resources.
Inspiring Stories of Post-Transplant Achievement
Anna Miskolczi’s story demonstrates that extraordinary life is possible after organ transplantation. Diagnosed at age 11 during a sports evaluation, the 14-year-old received a kidney from her father László in February 2023. Despite initial infection risks due to immunosuppressive treatment, Anna’s condition stabilized and her athletic pursuits flourished.
Anna achieved remarkable success at the 2025 World Transplant Games in Dresden, winning gold in swimming and setting a world record in the long jump with 474 centimeters for her age group. She also claimed victory in the 100-meter sprint. Her achievements extend to domestic competitions, where she podiums among non-transplant athletes as well.
Anna’s father serves as both her donor and coach, supporting her athletic journey. Together, they actively raise awareness about organ transplantation, using their personal experience to inform others and reduce uncertainty about the process. Their story proves that with proper care and support, transplant recipients can reach extraordinary heights.
Looking Forward
The record-breaking performance at Semmelweis University reflects not just medical advancement but also growing societal acceptance of living donation. As technology continues to evolve and public awareness increases, the potential for saving and improving lives through living donor kidney transplantation will only expand. The combination of medical expertise, technological innovation, and compassionate care creates a powerful model for transplant programs worldwide.
For those considering living donation or transplantation, Semmelweis University offers comprehensive evaluation, state-of-the-art surgical techniques, and lifelong follow-up care. The university’s commitment to excellence in transplantation continues to transform lives, one kidney at a time.
