Improving pancreas graft utilization through importation. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • BACKGROUND: We analyze our outcomes utilizing imported allografts as a strategy to shorten wait list time for pancreas transplantation. METHODS: This is an observational retrospective cohort of 26 recipients who received either a locally procured (n = 16) or an imported pancreas graft (n = 10) at our center between January 2014 and May 2017. Wait list times of this cohort were compared to UNOS Region 9 (New York State and Western Vermont). Hospital financial data were also reviewed to analyze the cost-effectiveness of this strategy. RESULTS: Imported pancreas grafts had significantly increased cold ischemia times (CIT) and peak lipase (PL) levels compared to locally procured grafts (CIT 827 vs 497 minutes; P = .001, PL 563 vs 157 u/L; P = .023, respectively). There were no differences in graft or patient survival. The median wait time was significantly lower for simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplants at our center (518 days, n = 21) compared to Region 9 (1001 days, n = 65) P = .038. Despite financial concerns, the cost of transport for imported grafts was offset by lower standard acquisition costs. CONCLUSIONS: Imported pancreas grafts may be a cost-effective strategy to increase organ utilization and shorten wait times in regions with longer waiting times.

authors

  • Torabi, Julia
  • Rocca, Juan
  • Choinski, Krystina
  • Lorenzen, Katherine
  • Yongue, Camille
  • Lubetzsky, Michelle L
  • Herbert, Melvon E
  • Chokechanachaisakul, Attasit
  • Ajaimy, Maria
  • Kamal, Layla
  • Akalin, Enver
  • Kinkhabwala, Milan
  • Graham, Jay A

publication date

  • December 11, 2017

Research

keywords

  • Cold Ischemia
  • Graft Survival
  • Pancreas Transplantation
  • Patient Selection
  • Tissue and Organ Procurement

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 85040348643

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1111/ctr.13154

PubMed ID

  • 29140549

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 32

issue

  • 1