Islet Transplantation

Question 1

What is an Islet Transplant?

Answer 1

Islet cells from donor pancreas introduced to recipient liver to secrete insulin.

Question 2

Stages of an Islet transplant Procedure?

Answer 2

Insulin-producing islets taken from donor using Ricordi Chamber.
. Islets separated by metal beads.
. Islets introduced to recipient liver.
.Islets secrete insulin post-transplantation.

Question 3

List some advantages of Islet transplantation?

Answer 3

Removes need for insulin injections and improves overnight control. Transplant is easy and non-invasive. Prevents hypos.

Question 4

List some limitations of islet transplantation?

Answer 4

Only 2% of donor pancreas contains islets therefore repeat transplants are often necessary. There is a shortage of donors. Immunosuppression is required and can have side effects.