Pancreas Transplant
If you have diabetes, a pancreas transplant can end the need for insulin shots and improve your health.
Medically reviewed by Naeem Goussous, M.D. on Sep. 05, 2023.
Early Adopter of Innovative Transplant Procedures
Our transplant team has used cutting-edge surgical techniques for 30 years. We were an early adopter of pancreas transplant surgery to treat diabetes.
UC Davis Transplant Center surgeons and specialists share a commitment to innovation and patient-focused care. Our research helps drive advances in transplant procedures and technology.
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Types of Pancreas Transplant Surgery
Pancreas transplant surgery treats patients with diabetes, a disorder that affects your body’s ability to control blood sugar levels. Your new pancreas produces insulin to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Because diabetes can also cause kidney failure, kidney and pancreas transplants often happen in the same procedure.
Pancreas After Kidney Transplant (PAK)
We PAK transplants to people with diabetes who have already had a successful kidney transplant.
Pancreas Transplant Alone (PTA)
Your provider may recommend a PTA if you have diabetes with healthy kidney function. During this procedure, your surgeon places a healthy donated pancreas in your body. The surgeon attaches the new pancreas to your blood vessels and intestine or bladder. Your diseased pancreas stays in your body.
Simultaneous Pancreas and Kidney Transplant (SPK)
If you experience kidney failure from diabetes, your provider may recommend a SPK. During this procedure, a surgeon places a healthy donated pancreas and kidney in your body.
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Preparing for Pancreas Transplant Surgery
When a new pancreas becomes available, you’ll need to arrive at the hospital immediately to prepare for surgery. The transplant must take place within 12 to 15 hours after surgeons remove the healthy pancreas from the donor.
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Pre-Operation
When you arrive at the hospital, your anesthesiologist and surgeon will discuss the details of your procedure with you. A nurse will place an IV in your arm so you can receive fluids and medication during your surgery.
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During Surgery
Pancreas transplant surgery requires general anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist will give you medicine in your IV that puts you in a deep sleep. You will not be awake or feel pain during the procedure. Your surgeon will make an incision in your abdomen. Your anesthesiologist will watch your blood pressure, breathing and pulse while your surgeon places the new pancreas in your body.
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Post-Operation
After your surgery, you will spend a day or two in the intensive care unit (ICU). Your transplant care team will check for signs of infection or organ rejection. After that, you will move to a regular hospital room. You will stay in the hospital for about a week if there are no complications.
Home Care
Your transplant care team will give you detailed instructions for your home care. They will prescribe immunosuppressant medications to stop your body from rejecting your new pancreas. They will also teach you how to check for signs of infection or organ rejection.
Continue Your Medications
Take your medications exactly as prescribed. You will take immunosuppressant medicines for the rest of your life.
Keep All Check-up Appointments
You will have regular follow-up appointments and tests to make sure your new pancreas is healthy and producing insulin.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Your provider will recommend a healthy diet and exercise plan. Both are important to keep your pancreas healthy.
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