How Does Diabetes Impact a Transplant?
For patients with kidney failure stemming from type 1 diabetes, physicians may recommend a simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplant (SKP). Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin, the hormone regulating blood sugar. A transplanted pancreas can restore insulin production and manage this condition.
Approximately 700 SKP transplants occur annually in the United States. Candidates must meet specific requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have both type 1 diabetes and kidney failure
- Complete physical and psychological evaluations
Certain patients are generally excluded from SKP consideration, including those with cancer, poor treatment adherence, substance abuse issues, severe cognitive impairment, or significant cardiac or vascular disease.
While simultaneous transplants are standard, kidney and pancreas grafts can be performed separately, typically with kidney transplantation occurring first.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetic patients do not qualify for SKP transplants since pancreas transplantation is not necessary. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas produces adequate insulin but the body cannot utilize it effectively. However, those with type 2 diabetes and kidney failure may remain candidates for kidney transplantation alone.
Success Rate of Kidney-Pancreas Transplants
According to the National Kidney Foundation, 95% of kidney-pancreas transplants are still functioning well one year after the operation, and 92.5% at three years. Optimal outcomes typically occur when both organs originate from the same deceased donor, substantially reducing rejection risk.
Rejection represents a primary transplant complication. Patient success depends on strict adherence to anti-rejection medications and coordinated management with physicians regarding side effects.