Pancreas transplants are performed using a cadaver organ. Once you are placed on the waiting list for a donor pancreas, you must be able to be reached by telephone or beeper at all times. When an organ becomes available, you must be ready to come to the hospital immediately.

In some cases, you may come to the hospital, undergo a final health assessment, and then learn that the donor pancreas is unacceptable for some reason. While this can be a major disappointment, it’s important to remember that it would be more damaging for you to receive an organ that was not suitable.

During the transplant, which takes about three hours, an incision is made down the center of your abdomen. The donor pancreas is placed near your pelvis, along with a small portion of donor intestine. The surgeons usually will attach the donor intestine to your bladder in order to allow enzymes from the new pancreas to pass into your urine.

Your own pancreas does not need to be removed. Although it cannot produce insulin, the original pancreas may continue to perform other functions that are important for your body.

While recovering in the hospital, you may have some pain and discomfort, which medication can help to relieve. You will be asked to cough periodically to keep your lungs clear. You also will have an IV line, usually in your arm, so you can be given fluids and medication for the first few days after surgery.

You will be in the hospital for about a week. Your pancreas should begin to function right away. You can resume a normal diet within three days after surgery.