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A Method for Murine Islet Isolation and Subcapsular Kidney Transplantation
Published on: April 13, 2011
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Pediatric Autologous Islet Transplantation
Melena D Bellin1, Sarah J Schwarzenberg, Marie Cook
1Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA, bell0130@umn.edu.
Current Diabetes Reports
|August 16, 2015
Summary
Total pancreatectomy and islet autotransplant (TPIAT) provides significant pain relief and enhances quality of life for children with severe pancreatitis. This procedure offers a chance for insulin independence and improved diabetes management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Transplantation Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Chronic pancreatitis in children often leads to severe pain and disability.
- Medical and endoscopic therapies may fail for these patients.
- Total pancreatectomy and islet autotransplant (TPIAT) is a potential surgical option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of TPIAT in improving pain and quality of life in children with chronic pancreatitis.
- To assess the long-term outcomes of TPIAT, including insulin independence and diabetes control.
Main Methods:
- Surgical resection of the entire pancreas.
- Isolation and autotransplantation of pancreatic islets into the patient's liver.
- Monitoring of islet engraftment, insulin independence, and pain levels.
Main Results:
- The majority of patients experience significant pain relief.
- Over 40% of patients achieve and maintain insulin independence.
- Even patients remaining on insulin show improved diabetes control due to residual islet function.
Conclusions:
- TPIAT is a viable option for children with severe, refractory chronic pancreatitis.
- The procedure offers substantial improvements in quality of life and pain management.
- TPIAT can lead to easier diabetes control and potential insulin independence.
