Intestinal / Small Bowel Transplantation
Intestinal transplantation, also called small bowel transplantation, is a specialized procedure considered for selected patients whose small intestine can no longer absorb enough nutrients and fluids to support the body. It may be considered in severe intestinal failure or short bowel syndrome when long-term intravenous nutrition causes serious complications.
When Is a Small Bowel Transplant Considered?
A transplant may be evaluated when a patient has severe intestinal dysfunction, prolonged dependence on parenteral nutrition, or complications such as significant liver disease, loss of venous access, or recurrent serious catheter-related infections. Each case requires detailed assessment by a multidisciplinary transplant team.
Evaluation and Transplant Care
Before transplantation, specialists assess nutritional status, intestinal function, overall health, infection risks and suitability for transplantation. After surgery, patients require close monitoring, nutritional support and immunosuppressive medicines to reduce the risk of organ rejection. Regular follow-up and blood tests are essential for monitoring transplant function, medication effects and possible complications.
Benefits of Intestinal Transplantation
For appropriately selected patients, transplantation can provide a new source of intestinal function and may reduce dependence on long-term intravenous nutritional support. Outcomes vary according to the patient's condition, transplant type and response to treatment.