Dual organ transplantation: Pancreas and Liver in the kidney axis

Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens. 2025 Mar 1;34(2):164-169. doi: 10.1097/MNH.0000000000001049. Epub 2024 Dec 6.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This article explores the benefits and challenges of dual organ transplants.

Recent findings: Simultaneous liver-kidney transplant has become a valuable option for patients with both liver and kidney failure, especially since the introduction of clearer eligibility guidelines in 2017. When done for the appropriate candidate, it can significantly improve survival and quality of life. Similarly, simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation provides significant advantages for patients with diabetes-related kidney failure by addressing both glycemic control and kidney function, with significant improvement in diabetes associated complications and survival.

Summary: While these procedures are complex, they offer promising solutions for managing difficult multiorgan conditions. Ongoing research and personalized patient care will be key to maximizing their benefits.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetic Nephropathies* / diagnosis
  • Diabetic Nephropathies* / mortality
  • Diabetic Nephropathies* / physiopathology
  • Diabetic Nephropathies* / surgery
  • Graft Survival
  • Humans
  • Kidney / physiopathology
  • Kidney Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Kidney Transplantation* / methods
  • Kidney Transplantation* / mortality
  • Liver Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Liver Transplantation* / mortality
  • Pancreas Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Pancreas Transplantation* / mortality
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome