Intestine Transplant - Organ Transplant

Intestinal Transplant Treatment Abroad

Overview

An individual who has been diagnosed with some form of intestinal failure in a portion of the small or large intestine may be prime candidates for partial intestinal transplant procedure.  Surgical treatment is generally only recommended if traditional dietary and other medical treatments fail to produce desired results.

Who Benefits From an Intestinal Transplant?

Individuals diagnosed with liver disease, liver failure, or tumors as well as congenital mucosal disorders or short bowel syndrome may be the best candidates for intestinal transplant procedures. Individuals considered for transplant procedures such as those listed below must meet certain criteria as well as prognosis for post surgical success, life span, and quality of life.

About the Intestinal Transplant Procedure

Several different types of intestinal transplants are offered today, the most common including:

• Isolated Small Bowel Transplant (SBYx) - This transplant effects the jejunum and the ileum portion of the intestines. The jejunum is the second section of the small bowel or small intestine that is often 20 feet long. The jejunum is responsible for absorbing vital nutrients as they traveled through the intestine. The ileum is the last or lowest portion of the small intestine before it joins with the large intestine or colon.
• Multivisceral transplantation - This procedure may affect removal or transplantation of not only the jejunum and ileum, but may also include the duodenum, the stomach, and the pancreas. This procedure may also be performed in addition to a liver transplant. This type of transplant is generally indicated for individuals who have local and non- metastasizing, or non-spreading abdominal tumors, as well as those who have experienced abnormal or congenital gastrointestinal tract anomalies or abnormalities.
• Combined small intestine and liver transplant - This procedure is often indicated for individuals who have experienced irreversible liver failure or function, or intestinal failure. 

The approach to intestinal transplant procedures is basically the same for all types of intestinal transplants, as well as other organ transplant procedures. The patient is prepared for surgery following careful matching of donor organs or organ tissues. Blood type, condition, and geographical location will also determine donor-recipient availability. Individuals considered for intestinal transplant may also be required to undergo a variety of tests that include:

• Abdominal CT scan
• Barium enema
• Mobility studies
• Endoscopy
• Ultrasound, EKGN echocardiography
• Blood tests that determine overall liver function, kidney function and presence of anti- bodies and electrolytes
• Upper GI (gastrointestinal) and small bowel x-rays

The patient will be placed under general anesthesia during the procedure, meaning they'll be asleep and won't feel any pain. The surgeon makes incisions over the areas where damaged portions of the organs are located and blood vessels are clamped off. Damaged portions of the intestine are then clamped off, removed, and replaced by healthy donor organ tissue sections.

Following the transplant procedure, and depending on how much of the organ and how many organs are replaced, an individual can anticipate a several day stay in the hospital's intensive care unit. Depending on case scenario, a patient may stay in the hospital for between several weeks and several months, again depending on the severity and number of organ transplants performed.

Who Performs Organ Transplants?

Surgeons who have completed general surgery requirements and training are eligible for organ transplant training and education. Accredited and certified surgeons should belong to the American Society of Transplant Surgeons in the U.S. or other similar organizations or boards in the surgeon’s country of origin. Always verify the education, training and experience of any surgeon who may perform surgery and make sure they are licensed to practice in the facility of your choice.

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