Predictors of Delayed Graft Function in Renal Transplantation

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze our data on delayed graft function (DGF) and to identify associated factors. Methods: This is a retrospective case-control study of all patients transplanted in our center over a period of 11 years (January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2014) comparing patients with immediate graft function (n = 332) to those with DGF (n = 165). DGF was defined as the need for hemodialysis within the first 7 days after transplantation. Donor and recipient characteristics as well as procedural factors were compared by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: Overall, 33% of patients had DGF. The rate of DGF declined from 2003 to 2011. In cases with DGF, donors and recipients were significantly older (p = 0.004 and p = 0.005, respectively), had longer cold ischemia times (p = 0.039), more revision surgeries (p < 0.001), and more HLA mismatches (p = 0.001), especially in the DR locus (p = 0.002). Neither donor nor recipient gender, waiting time, nor CMV status had any influence. In multivariable analysis, significant risk factors were ischemia time and mismatches at the HLA-DR loci. Conclusions: DGF is a common complication in renal transplantation which occurred in 33% of our cases. Important factors identified were donor and recipient age, ischemia time, HLA mismatching, and revision surgery.