Preparation of the pancreas allograft for transplantation.

Meticulous preparation of the allograft on the back bench is one of the cornerstones of technically successful whole-organ pancreas transplantation. With evolving surgical approaches for organ retrieval and implantation, it has become routine to procure the pancreas in conjunction with other abdominal organs without sacrificing vasculature or graft quality and without compromising excellent outcomes. This review article summarizes the major steps required for proper back table preparation of the pancreas allograft with suggestions and tips whenever alternative approaches are presented.

Early reexploration for suspected thrombosis after pancreas transplantation.

Background: Graft thrombosis is the most common cause of early graft loss after pancreas transplantation. Early reexploration may permit salvage or timely removal of the thrombosed graft.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of 345 pancreas transplants performed at a single center between January 2003 and December 2009.