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Mouse Model for Pancreas Transplantation Using a Modified Cuff Technique
Published on: December 16, 2017
Pancreas Transplantation: Anatomy, Imaging, and Complications
Melanie P Caserta1, Rachel L Perez1, Dillon M Brown1
1From the Departments of Radiology (M.P.C., D.M.B., M.A.D., J.D.L., M.J.C., L.F.A.) and Transplantation (J.N.C., S.A.M.), Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32224; Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Ariz (R.L.P., C.R.A., N.D.); and Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, Minn (A.N.K.).
Pancreas transplantation (PT) enhances patient longevity and quality of life for diabetes patients. Imaging PT requires understanding complex anatomy and various modalities like ultrasound, CT, and MRI for complication detection.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Transplant Surgery
- Nephrology
Background:
- Pancreas transplantation (PT) offers significant benefits for patients with diabetes, including improved quality of life and longevity.
- These benefits must be balanced against risks such as postsurgical complications and the need for long-term immunosuppression.
- Recent advancements in surgical techniques and immunosuppression have improved outcomes for PT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the surgical techniques and anatomy involved in pancreas transplantation.
- To outline the imaging evaluation of pancreas allografts and their complications.
- To describe common post-transplant complications and their imaging appearances.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasound (US) is the primary imaging modality for evaluating the pancreas allograft and vasculature.
- Contrast-enhanced US can assess allograft blood flow when Doppler US is inconclusive.
- CT with oral contrast is preferred for bowel complications; CT angiography for vascular issues. MRI serves as a problem-solving tool, with ferumoxytol-enhanced MRI useful for transplant vasculature.
Main Results:
- Imaging pancreas transplants presents challenges due to complex postsurgical anatomy and distinguishing the allograft from bowel.
- US is the first-line tool for allograft and vascular assessment.
- CT and MRI offer complementary roles in evaluating specific complications, with MRI being advantageous when contrast agents are contraindicated.
Conclusions:
- Radiologists must be familiar with normal pancreas allograft imaging and potential post-transplant complications.
- Accurate interpretation of imaging is crucial for optimal patient care following pancreas transplantation.
- A comprehensive understanding of imaging modalities aids in managing pancreas transplant recipients effectively.
