Pancreas transplant
A pancreas transplant is a surgical procedure that replaces the existing pancreas with one that is able to produce insulin. This procedure is typically performed as a potential cure for Type 1 diabetics.
Pancreas transplant surgery in Dallas, Texas
At Medical City Dallas, we can help you find out if this is right for you.
The multidisciplinary transplant team at Medical City Dallas provides high-quality transplant testing and evaluation and will walk you through the benefits and risks of pancreas transplant surgery, long-term post-surgical care and expectations.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Pancreas transplant services we offer
When someone’s quality of life is greatly diminished by the effects of diabetes and current medical therapies are not working, a pancreas transplant can be an effective treatment option. Our transplant program provides three types of pancreas transplant procedures:
- Pancreas-only transplant
- Simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation
- Pancreas transplantation after kidney transplant
Pancreas-only transplant
A pancreas-only transplant is a surgical procedure that places a healthy pancreas from a donor into a person whose pancreas no longer functions properly.
Most pancreas-only transplants are used to treat Type 1 diabetes. Although this procedure offers a potential cure for Type 1 diabetes, it is typically reserved for patients with serious complications of diabetes.
Simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplant
In a simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplant, both organs are placed during a single operation. This type of transplant is typically used for patients with kidney failure related to Type 1 diabetes.
Why should you consider a pancreas transplant
Having diabetes can be one of the primary reasons a patient may need a kidney transplant. However, a kidney transplant alone will not help your diabetes. If you are a Type I or Type II diabetic, a pancreas transplant might be an option for you.
A pancreas transplant will help protect your new kidney from the effects of diabetes and eliminate your need for insulin or oral medications. Pancreas transplant is most commonly done at the same time as your kidney transplant, or could also be done alone or after kidney transplantation.
Medical City Dallas has a dedicated kidney and pancreas coordinator for efficient, personalized care who expedites workup and listing for potential candidates.
Did you know?
- The need for insulin, dietary restrictions and routine blood sugar checks can be eliminated with pancreas transplantation.
- Recipients may no longer experience blood sugar highs and lows or other symptoms of diabetes, such as numbness and tingling in their fingertips and feet.
- A pancreas transplant can further reduce organ damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugars.
Pancreas transplantation after kidney transplant
If a kidney becomes available before a pancreas, or if the patient is not physically able to withstand a simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplant, a patient may have a kidney transplant first, followed by a pancreas transplant at a later date.
How do I qualify for a pancreas transplant
Each potential candidate is evaluated on an individual basis and undergoes an extensive series of tests to determine if transplantation is the most appropriate treatment option. However, for candidates to be considered for a pancreas transplant, they must:
- Have Type I or Type II diabetes using insulin and/or oral medications
- BMI of 32 or less
- Compliant with treatments, medications and appointments
- Have a social support system