Innovation improving the quality of life

The Transplant Center--Intestinal Transplantation

In 1966, University of Minnesota surgeons performed the first intestinal transplant in the world. Over the years, researchers have refined intestinal transplantation by improving surgical techniques, using better post-transplant monitoring and more effective medications to prevent rejection of the transplanted bowel.

David Tillery (left) received a living donor intestinal transplant from his father, John (right), in 1996 after being seriously injured in an auto accident. Father and son are shown enjoying baseball memorabilia.

The main indication for an intestinal transplant is short bowel syndrome--the result of losing intestine or a break down of its ability to absorb. When 75 percent or more of the intestinal tract is gone or not working, it usually results in severe short bowel syndrome and the need for total parenteral nutrition (TPN). TPN supplies the body with nutrition intravenously by bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. Patients with short bowel syndrome are unable to maintain nutritional or intestinal fluid and electrolyte balance using their intestinal tract. A successful intestinal transplant will make patients TPN-independent and prevent TPN-associated complications such as frequent catheter infections, liver dysfunction, cholelithiasis and pancreatitis.

Living Donor Success

Since returning to the University of Minnesota in 1999, transplant surgeon Rainer Gruessner, M.D., has transplanted an increasing number of living related donors in addition to cadaver donors. Using living related donors

• eliminates long waiting times on transplant lists,
• supports better tissue compatibility between donor and recipient,
• allows for a shorter organ preservation time,
• requires less post-transplant immunosuppressive therapy, and
• provides a lower incidence of rejection and infection.

Patient Referral
Referral to The Transplant Center may originate from a physician or insurance company, or from patients themselves.

For kidney, liver, lung, intestine, pancreas and islet transplantation call:

• 612-625-5115 or 800-328-5465

For heart transplantation call:

• 612-625-9922 or 800-478-5864