Intestinal transplant provides life-saving treatment for bowel failure.
Intestinal transplants remain one of the most complex and least frequently performed intra-abdominal organ transplants. However, over the past 15 years, outcomes have significantly improved, and the number of transplants performed each year has steadily increased.
Factors Contributing to Improved Outcomes
Several key advancements have led to better success rates and increased availability of intestinal transplants, including:
• Enhanced immunosuppressive therapies, reducing the risk of organ rejection.
• Improved surgical techniques, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery.
• Early diagnosis and management of infections, increasing long-term survival rates.
• Better post-transplant care, ensuring optimal patient health and graft function.
• Increased awareness and organ donation rates, expanding access to transplants.
Why is an Intestinal Transplant Needed?
An intestinal transplant is a life-saving procedure for individuals with severe intestinal failure due to conditions such as:
• Short bowel syndrome (SBS) caused by surgical removal of large portions of the intestine.
• Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, where the intestine loses its ability to move food normally.
• Congenital digestive disorders, affecting nutrient absorption from birth.
• Severe complications from total parenteral nutrition (TPN), such as liver damage or bloodstream infections.
Types of Intestinal Transplants
• Isolated Intestinal Transplant: Performed when only the intestine is affected.
• Multivisceral Transplant: Includes the intestine and other abdominal organs, such as the liver and pancreas.
• Modified Multivisceral Transplant: Tailored to include select organs based on patient needs.
Recovery and Life After Transplant
With continued advancements in medical care, more patients are experiencing successful outcomes. Post-transplant care includes lifelong immunosuppressive therapy, dietary modifications, and routine medical follow-ups to ensure long-term success.
Looking for an Intestinal Transplant?
If you or a loved one are in need of an intestinal transplant, our expert team is here to provide guidance and support. Contact us today to learn more about eligibility, donor options, and the transplant process.
Frequentky Asked Questions
Patients with intestinal failure from bowel gangrene, motility disorders and malabsorption syndromes need intestinal transplant.
You need to visit a transplant centre. The transplant team will evaluate and put you on the waiting list.
# Deceased donor transplant: The intestine is obtained from a brain-dead donor.
# Living donor transplant: A part of the intestine is obtained from a living donor.
A family member between 18-55 years of age and a compatible blood group can donate.
Patients leads a normal life. They need to take regular immunosuppression medication to keep the intestine healthy.
It is usually 4-6 weeks.