What is Involved in Having a Pancreas Transplant?
Referral and assessment Most pancreas transplants are done in conjunction with a kidney transplant, but the pancreas transplant can occur after the kidney transplant. Either a nephrologist or an endocrinologist may refer you to the program. Prior to being considered for a transplant, a series of tests must be done. This allows us to have a picture of your health status. We want to ensure that we do everything possible to make your transplant a success. These tests will also help to evaluate if transplantation is appropriate for you. Acceptance and waiting Once your assessment has been completed and you are approved for transplant, you will then be placed on the active waiting list. One of the most difficult parts of the transplant process is waiting for the call to come in for your transplant. The average wait for a donor kidney and pancreas can vary from a few months to over two years. Pancreas and kidney/pancreas transplantation requires a “cadaver” donor, meaning an individual who h
