Abstract

The increased demand for kidney transplants arising from kidney failure and intricacies with dead-donor organ nephrectomy has led to increased focus on live-donor nephrectomy. As with all procedures, postoperative care is critical to physiologic recovery and mental health support in live donors. This study explored the clinical potential of Cinnamomum camphora (camphor) aromatherapy to improve haematology and biochemical parameters following unilateral nephrectomy in the Wistar rat model. Eighteen male Wistar rats (mean weight 217 ± 12 g) were randomized into three groups (n = 6): Group I (unilaterally nephrectomised) was subjected to Cinnamomum camphora inhalation exposure for 10 days post-surgery. Group II (unilaterally nephrectomised) and group III (sham-operated) were not exposed to camphor. Cinnamomum camphora exposure was an adjunct to routine post-operative care. Hematologic and serum biochemical indices were assessed on day 10 post-surgery. The results showed the red cell indices slightly enhanced and total WBC significantly (p < 0.05) lowered in group I compared to group II, with a reduced neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Serum creatinine was lower in group I compared to group II, while bilirubin significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in Group I compared to control, with serum fibrinogen lowest in Group II. This study has shown that Cinnamomum camphora aromatherapy potentially improved recovery in live-donor nephrectomy, with most homeostatic indices studied being enhanced, although not all reached statistical significance. The trend provides preliminary evidence for a safe adjunct to conventional postoperative care that ameliorates stress, reduces drug reliance, and promotes homeostatic stability. The findings lay a good groundwork for future studies.

Key words: Aromatherapy, Cinnamomum camphora, Live-donor, Nephrectomy, Post-operative