Our Summary

This study compares the strict criteria used for intestine donations with the actual characteristics of donors at their transplant center over a 20-year period. The researchers found that the criteria they actually used were less strict than the original guidelines. Despite this, they still achieved good patient and transplant success rates. When they applied these relaxed criteria to previous organ offers, they found that potential intestine donations could have increased by 127%. However, they also found that 70% of the intestines offered were not used. This suggests that more intestines could be donated and used if the criteria were less strict, while still maintaining positive outcomes for patients.

FAQs

  1. What did the study find about the criteria used for intestine donations over a 20-year period?
  2. How did the relaxation of criteria affect potential intestine donations according to the study?
  3. Could more intestines be donated and used if the criteria were less strict, while still maintaining positive patient outcomes?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about intestinal transplant is to stay informed about potential changes in organ donation criteria and to discuss these with their healthcare team. By understanding the criteria for donation and being aware of any updates or changes, patients may have a better chance of receiving a transplant. Additionally, patients should follow their healthcare team’s recommendations for pre- and post-transplant care to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for intestinal transplant are those with severe intestinal failure, such as those with short bowel syndrome, intestinal motility disorders, or complications from previous surgeries or diseases. These patients may have difficulty absorbing nutrients from food and may require intravenous nutrition (parenteral nutrition) to survive. Intestinal transplant may be considered when other treatments, such as medications, dietary modifications, or surgical procedures, have not been successful in improving the patient’s condition. Additionally, patients who have experienced complications from previous intestinal transplants may also be recommended for a repeat transplant.

Timeline

Before the intestinal transplant:

  • Patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to determine if they are a candidate for an intestinal transplant
  • Patient is placed on the transplant waiting list
  • Patient waits for a suitable donor intestine to become available
  • Patient may undergo pre-transplant treatments or therapies to prepare for the transplant

After the intestinal transplant:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to receive the donor intestine
  • Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit post-transplant
  • Patient may experience complications such as rejection or infection, which require treatment
  • Patient undergoes regular follow-up visits and tests to monitor the success of the transplant
  • Patient may need to take immunosuppressive medications for the rest of their life to prevent rejection of the transplanted intestine
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience an improved quality of life post-transplant.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the specific criteria for qualifying for an intestinal transplant at this transplant center?
  2. How long is the waiting list for intestinal transplants at this center?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with intestinal transplant surgery?
  4. What is the success rate for intestinal transplants at this center?
  5. How long is the recovery process after an intestinal transplant?
  6. What is the long-term outlook for patients who undergo an intestinal transplant?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with the transplant team after the surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary restrictions I will need to adhere to after an intestinal transplant?
  9. How does the center determine which donor intestines are suitable for transplant?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before opting for an intestinal transplant?

Reference

Authors: Clarysse M, Vanuytsel T, Canovai E, Monbaliu D, Ceulemans LJ, Pirenne J. Journal: Transpl Int. 2023 Aug 21;36:11371. doi: 10.3389/ti.2023.11371. eCollection 2023. PMID: 37671117