St. Luke's Pancreas Transplant Program
Referral phase |
Pre-transplant |
Transplant |
Discharge & follow-up |
Resuming activity |
FAQs
|
How UNOS works
Frequently asked questions
I have diabetes and am on insulin but have not had any other problems
with my diabetes. Am I a candidate for pancreas transplant?
If you are successfully managing your Type 1 diabetes, transplant would not
be the first choice of treatment.
Do patients have to have had diabetes since childhood to qualify for a
pancreas transplant?
Typically Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed in childhood or early adolescence so
it is likely that patients will have had diabetes since childhood, although
not a requirement.
Will my diabetes be cured in I receive a pancreas transplant?
With Type 1 diabetes, your body in incapable of producing insulin. If you
receive a pancreas transplant, the new pancreas will be able to produce
insulin, so you will no longer need to take it. Some of the side effects of
diabetes may still exist, including foot ulcers and neuropathy.
Do I have to have a kidney and pancreas transplant or can I have the
pancreas transplant only?
If your kidneys have been damaged by your diabetes you may require a kidney
and pancreas transplant. If your kidneys have not been damaged, you may be
able to receive a pancreas transplant alone.
How long will I have to wait for a pancreas transplant?
The amount of time you will wait depends on several variables – your place
on the transplant list, your blood type and your clinical status. Your blood
type must be an acceptable match with the pancreas donor's blood type. The
severity of your disease will also help determine your place on the list.
What can liver transplant recipients expect following their
transplant?
For the first few weeks after transplant, patients can expect frequent
appointments with the transplant clinic where they will check for signs of
rejection and appropriate recovery. Patients will also undergo
rehabilitation to help them return to normal activity. Most patients regain
their health and strength and are able to resume everyday activities within
a few months.
Who can become a donor?
Anyone can make the choice to become an organ donor. If you would like to
become an organ donor, be sure to fill out the organ donation information on
your driver's license and share your decision with your family and friends.
Is there a cost to donating your organs?
No. There is no cost to the donor or donor's family.
To learn more, click here or call
414-646-2550.
|
