How long will my damaged kidney work?

Q: I am 28 years old man and my right kidney got damaged due to pelvi-uteretic junction (PUJ) obstruction. It is functioning 38% in contrast to 62% of left kidney. I have already had 2 surgeries; first was open surgery done 5 years back and the second was laser surgery done 2 years back. How long will my right kidney function well? What precautions do I need to take?

A:It would be helpful to have information regarding serum creatinine level furnished before being able to comment regarding amount of kidney function you have. Above listed number percentage reflects residual function of each kidney with right kidney being more impaired. However, the cumulative function could be judged from creatinine value. In addition, your baseline blood pressure (any history of hypertension) and checking your urine for any significant protein leakage would also help to assess your risk for having progressive kidney disease in future. One could still have a sole relatively well functioning kidney for a long period as long as the risk factors are kept under check including strict control of blood pressure.