A pancreas transplant is a surgical procedure to implant a healthy pancreas from a donor into a recipient whose pancreas is not functioning properly.
What is Pancreas Transplant?
Who is the right candidate for a pancreatic transplant?
Pancreatic transplantation provides surgical treatment for diabetes mellitus. Pancreas transplantation is generally done in individuals having type 1 diabetes, mainly along with kidney damage, nerve damage, eye problems, or another complication of the disease.
Doctors consider pancreas transplant surgery when diabetes is out of control, even with medical treatment and for those who frequently suffer insulin reactions.
Can pancreatic transplant cure diabetes?
It is possible to cure diabetes through pancreas transplant surgery. The transplanted pancreas supplies new insulin-producing cells, removing the need for insulin injections. Following a transplant, you should take medication daily to protect your new organs from rejection.
What are the types of pancreas transplants?
There are three types of pancreatic transplantation, they are
- Simultaneous pancreas and kidney (SPK) transplantation.
- Pancreas transplantation alone (PTA transplant).
- Pancreas after kidney (PKA) transplantation.
What is the duration of pancreas transplant surgery?
The transplant usually lasts four to six hours, and the patient may have to stay in hospital for two to four weeks. After the procedure, the pancreas makes insulin within hours, and the blood sugar is controlled.
What are the risks involved in Pancreas Transplant Surgery?
Some of the risks involved are
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Short-term pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) just after the transplantation.
- Complications from anaesthesia or medications.
- In organ transplants, there is an additional complication of possible transplant rejection.
Is it possible to survive normally after a pancreas transplant?
Many people can resume their regular activities in a few months. Your healthcare providers will guide you about the dos and don'ts after the surgery. There will be regular check-ups with the transplant team after the procedure. Most people live a long life after a pancreas transplant.
What is the pancreas transplant success rate?
Pancreas transplant treatment have shown positive results with patients living healthy and long lives. Over 95% of people live the first year after pancreatic transplantation. However, about 1% of people suffer organ rejection each year. Taking medications that prevent rejection of the transplanted pancreas and kidney for the rest of life is essential. Consult your doctor for more information.
