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Updated: May 2, 2026
Isolation of Human Islets from Partially Pancreatectomized Patients
Published on: July 30, 2011
Total pancreatectomy and islet autotransplantation in chronic pancreatitis: recommendations from PancreasFest
Melena D Bellin1, Martin L Freeman2, Andres Gelrud3
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
Description:
Total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) is a surgical procedure used to treat severe complications of chronic pancreatitis or very high risk of pancreatic cancer while reducing the risk of severe diabetes mellitus. However, clear guidance on indications, contraindications, evaluation, timing, and follow-up are lacking.
Methods:
A working group reviewed the medical, psychological, and surgical options and supporting literature related to TPIAT for a consensus meeting during PancreasFest.
Results:
Five major areas requiring clinical evaluation and management were addressed: These included: 1) indications for TPIAT; 2) contraindications for TPIAT; 3) optimal timing of the procedure; 4) need for a multi-disciplinary team and the roles of the members; 5) life-long management issues following TPIAP including diabetes monitoring and nutrition evaluation.
Conclusions:
TPIAT is an effective method of managing the disabling complications of chronic pancreatitis and risk of pancreatic cancer in very high risk patients. Careful evaluation and long-term management of candidate patients by qualified multidisciplinary teams is required. Multiple recommendations for further research were also identified.
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01:29Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
01:25Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
01:24Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...