Which surgical procedure might be required for severe cases of SLE?

In severe cases of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), a kidney transplant may be necessary due to lupus nephritis, which is a significant complication of the disease. SLE can lead to inflammation and damage to the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. In cases where the kidneys are severely damaged and do not respond to medical treatment, a transplant may become the best option to restore kidney function and improve the patient’s overall health and quality of life.

Other surgical options mentioned, while important in specific contexts, are not typically associated directly with the complications of SLE. For instance, liver transplants are more relevant in cases of severe liver disease, heart surgery may be indicated for heart complications unrelated to lupus, and knee replacements are generally related to joint issues, which can occur due to other factors. However, the specific implications of SLE on kidney function make kidney transplantation the relevant surgical procedure for managing severe complications of the disease.