Combined transplantation of the kidney and pancreas is performed for those
who have kidney failure as a complication of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
(also called Type I diabetes). Kidney and pancreas transplant candidates might be
currently on dialysis or might require dialysis in the near future.
After combined transplantation of the kidney and pancreas, the kidney will be
able to filter and excrete wastes so dialysis will not be needed. The
transplanted pancreas will produce insulin to control the diabetes.
Am I a candidate for the double transplant?
If
you have Type I diabetes and you have kidney failure, or if your doctor thinks that
kidney failure is beginning, the double transplant (combined kidney and
pancreas) can be considered as a treatment option. Your doctor and transplant
surgeon can determine if the double transplant is needed based on your medical
condition, your overall health, and the results of a pre-transplant evaluation. A
pre-transplant evaluation includes a complete physical, consultations with a
transplant coordinator and surgeon, and a series of tests, including heart
and bladder evaluations.
Where does my new kidney and pancreas come from?
Kidneys
for transplantation come from two sources: living donors and deceased
(non-living) donors. Living donors are usually immediate family members or
sometimes spouses. Deceased donor kidneys come from people whose families give
permission for organ donation at the time of death. Three out of four kidney
transplants are performed with deceased donor kidneys.
Combined kidney and pancreas transplants and single pancreas transplants are
only performed with deceased donor organs.
All donors are carefully screened to prevent any transmissible diseases or
other complications. The donor is also carefully evaluated to make sure there is
a suitable match to your tissue and blood type.
What is the procedure for receiving a deceased donor transplant?
After your doctor and transplant surgeon have determined the double transplant
is needed, you will be placed on a waiting list to receive a deceased donor kidney and
pancreas. Your name and blood test results will be placed on the United Network for Organ Sharing's
(UNOS) national list.
When a deceased donor kidney and pancreas become available for transplantation, they
are given to the best possible match, based on blood type, tissue (HLA) type,
cross-match compatibility, and the length of time the recipient has been waiting.
If a perfect match (six antigen match) is identified through the national list,
the recipient matching the donor will be notified.