.jpg "Pancreatic Islet Transplantation")
During
pancreatic islet transplantation, healthy
pancreatic islets are transplanted from a deceased donor into the liver of the
patient. Pancreatic islets are clusters of cells responsible for making
insulin. The transplantation is usually performed via a catheter.
Also Known As:
Conditions Treated with Pancreatic Islet Transplantation:
Pancreatic islet transplantation may be performed in cases of type 1 diabetes.
.jpg "Pancreatic Islet Transplantation by OrangeCountySurgeons.org (2)")
Insulin
injections are a non-surgical alternative to pancreatic islet transplantation. Surgical alternatives to the
procedure include a pancreas transplant and pancreas-kidney transplant.
Anesthesia with Pancreatic Islet Transplantation:
Pancreatic islet transplantation is performed with a local anesthetic.
Potential Complications from Pancreatic Islet Transplantation:
Possible risks following pancreatic islet transplantation include blood clots, bleeding and portal vein damage. It is also possible for the transplant to be rejected or for the islet cells to stop producing insulin. The patient will need to take immunosuppressive drugs in order to prevent rejection, and these drugs have side effects.
Prognosis after Pancreatic Islet Transplantation:
Although pancreatic islet transplantation helps to eliminate the need for insulin injections in some patients, most patients need to return to insulin injections eventually as the transplanted cells lose their production over time.
Recovery from Pancreatic Islet Transplantation:
There is no recovery time following pancreatic islet transplantation.
