University of Minnesota surgeons at Fairview-University Medical Center removed the organs laparoscopically, which promotes faster healing and less pain. During the procedure, performed Nov. 22, surgeons used a scope and other instruments inserted through small incisions in the abdomen to remove the organs. Laparoscopy has been used before to remove a kidney for transplantation, or to remove part of a pancreas for disease treatment, but this is the first time both organs have been removed for transplantation. With laparoscopic removal, this first donor was able to recover in a few short days, rather than the two to three weeks we expect when a person must go through a major conventional operation. About 150 pancreas transplants and 240 kidney transplants are performed each year at Fairview-University Medical Center.
Diabetic patients suffering from kidney failure require both a kidney and a partial pancreas.
The university performs five to 10 conventional kidney-partial pancreas transplants from living donors and 50 to 70 from cadaver donors each year. With laparoscopy, living donors can now count on a less invasive, less painful and less risky procedure and can be discharged within a week. Organ donor Gary Burns, a resident of Appleton, Wis., returned home Nov. 29. She no longer needs insulin and will not require dialysis in the future. Her transplanted pancreas will eliminate or diminish the progression of her diabetic complications and will protect her new kidney.