19 Exploring the Role of an Implantable Doppler Probe as a Blood Flow-Monitoring Device in Kidney Transplant: A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Objectives Vascular thrombosis is a disastrous postoperative complication resulting in the loss of 3.5% to 5.7% of all kidney transplants. The use of blood flow-sensing technology in the early postoperative period may help in the early identification of vascular complications crucial to reducing graft loss. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of an implantable Doppler probe as a blood flow-monitoring device in kidney transplant recipients and to evaluate its usefulness in preventing early graft loss. Materials and Methods This 2-arm feasibility randomized controlled trial compared the demographical characteristics and surgical outcomes of kidney transplant recipients who received implantable Doppler probe monitoring (intervention group; n = 30) with those who had standard clinical care (control group; n = 30). Surgical outcomes compared between the groups included the number of early vascular complications identified, the number of departmental ultrasonography scans requested in the first 72 hours postoperatively, and month 3 graft loss. Results Both groups were similar in demographic characteristics. In the intervention group versus the control group, fewer ultrasonography scans were requested in the first 24 hours postoperatively (56% vs 91%) and lower graft loss (0% vs 6.6%) was recorded. The results addressed uncertainties around the feasibility study’s research methods and required resources for a future pragmatic trial. Conclusions An implantable Doppler probe may be a beneficial adjunct for graft monitoring after kidney transplants. This feasibility study provided the necessary preliminary information and filled initial gaps in the evidence that can inform future research.