Which treatment might a nephrologist recommend for end-stage kidney disease?

In cases of end-stage kidney disease, kidney transplantation is often considered the optimal treatment option. This is primarily because a successful transplant can restore kidney function, allowing the patient to live a normal life without the constraints of dialysis, which is typically required when the kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

A kidney transplant involves surgically placing a healthy donor kidney into a patient whose kidneys no longer function properly. The body can often function well with just one healthy kidney, making transplantation a desirable solution when available and suitable. The selection process for donors includes both living and deceased donors, and successful transplants can significantly improve patients' quality of life and longevity.

The other treatment options mentioned do not adequately address the primary issue of end-stage kidney disease. Physical therapy may aid overall health and mobility but does not treat renal failure directly. Insulin therapy is primarily used to manage diabetes and does not replace kidney function. Chemo-preventive medication is related to reducing cancer risk and is not applicable in the context of treating kidney failure. Thus, kidney transplantation stands out as the definitive recommended intervention for end-stage kidney disease.