Segmental pancreatic transplantation with duct ligation or drainage to a jejunal Roux-en-Y loop in nonuremic diabetic patients

The results of seven segmental pancreas transplantations in diabetic patients, using a jejunal Roux-en-Y loop for drainage of digestive enzymes, are presented. An initial case with pancreatic duct ligation is also included. The patients ranged in age from 30 to 45 yr, with duration of diabetes from 8 to 24 yr, and were incapacitated but not uremic. Immunosuppression was attempted with azathioprine, prednisone, and antilymphocyte globulin, and, in one patient, thoracic duct drainage was added. The pancreas tolerated at least 16 min of warm ischemia and at least 4 h of cold storage; flushing with a balanced electrolyte solution was optimal. Six of the grafts provided control of blood glucose for 7--51 days, and, in one patient, an intravenous glucose tolerance test was normal at 7 and 21 days. Five of the grafts failed due to rejection 7--51 days after transplantation, and one was removed at 14 days, while still functioning, due to bleeding. In one case, early detection of rejection by a rise in post-prandial blood glucose was treated and reversed by corticosteroid administration. Two failed in the immediate postoperative period from vascular thrombosis. Drainage of pancreatic secretions from a fistula was a common problem.