Simultaneous liver and pancreas transplantation in patients with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Background: Improved survival in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) has led to an increased incidence of extrapulmonary complications of this disease. Of these, cirrhosis and pancreatic insufficiency, including CF-related diabetes (CFRD) and exocrine insufficiency, are significant causes of morbidity and mortality. Liver transplantation is the treatment of choice for cirrhosis in this setting, but the addition of an isolated simultaneous pancreas transplant in patients with CFRD has not been reported.

Methods: Two female patients with CF underwent simultaneous pancreas and liver transplantation. Both had pancreatic insufficiency, CFRD, cirrhosis, and preserved renal function. In each case, the liver and pancreas were procured from a single cadaveric donor. The liver transplant was performed first. A lower midline extension was added for improved exposure of the iliac vessels. The donor pancreas transplant was performed with systemic venous drainage and enteric exocrine drainage. Immunosuppression included rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and early steroid withdrawal.

Results: Both patients recovered well with normal liver function, resolution of portal hypertension, and normal blood glucoses independent of insulin. As a result of the enteric exocrine drainage of the pancreas, they are now independent of supplemental pancreatic enzymes.

Conclusions: Simultaneous liver and pancreas transplantation in CF patients provides the advantages of normalization of glucose and improved nutrition for patients requiring liver transplantation and should be considered in CF patients with CFRD who require liver transplants.