Overview
Pancreas transplant
We give pancreas transplants to people from all over the UK.
We're one of the longest running and most active pancreas transplant programmes in the UK.
The results of pancreas transplants are published by the organ donation and transplantation directorate of NHS Blood and Transplant. You can compare our results to the 7 other hospitals that offer pancreas transplants in the UK.
Types of pancreas transplant
We'll usually do a kidney transplant at the same time as a pancreas transplant. The kidney and pancreas will come from a deceased donor. This is known as a combined, simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) transplant or a double transplant. The improved blood sugar control after the transplant provides better long-term kidney function. It can also improve many problems related to long-term diabetes, including:
- reducing nausea and vomiting
- stabilising blood vessel disease
- stabilising eye disease
- stabilising peripheral neuropathy
A pancreas-after-kidney (PAK) transplant is when you have a pancreas transplant at least 4 months after you've had a kidney transplant. This allows you to control when you have the kidney transplant. The kidney will usually come from a living donor which will give you the best quality kidney.
We will transplant just the pancreas for some people with diabetes.
We can also transplant just the islets (specialised cells that produce insulin). This does not involve an open operation as the cells are injected into the liver through a long needle which goes through the skin.
Wards
You'll stay on Richard Bright ward if you're having a pancreas transplant.
Our consultants
Research and clinical trials
Research is vital to improving the care that you receive when you're unwell. You can help improve healthcare by taking part in research studies at our Trust. During your appointment, ask your healthcare professional about research. They'll be happy to tell you about research studies you could be eligible to join.
You can also email giresearchteam@gstt.nhs.uk for more information.
Last updated: 18 November 2022
