Technical Aspects of Living Donor Intestinal Transplantation

Irreversible intestinal failure is associated with significant morbidity secondary to parenteral nutrition, including liver dysfunction, infections, and loss of vascular access. Living donor intestinal transplantation (LDITx) offers a potentially curative option, particularly in regions with limited deceased donors. The procedure is technically demanding, requiring meticulous management of small-caliber vascular pedicles and careful perioperative monitoring to minimize vascular complications. Ensuring donor safety through structured multidisciplinary evaluation is paramount. This article provides a detailed overview of LDITx, emphasizing operative techniques, graft procurement, and recipient procedure, highlighting strategies that optimize both donor and recipient outcomes while restoring intestinal function and quality of life.