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What
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Intestines Portions of the gastrointestinal tract, such as
the stomach and the small and large intestines that extend from the stomach
to the anus, may also be transplanted. Most intestinal transplants are whole organ transplants
performed in conjunction with a liver transplant. Usually, this procedure
involves deceased donors. It is possible for a living donor to donate
an intestinal segment. Some ailments that require intestinal transplants
include Crohn's disease and gastroschisis, which is a congenital defect
in the abdominal wall. As of April 2003, there were 185 people waiting
for intestinal transplants, according to OPTN. The first successful intestinal transplant was performed in 1987. In 2002, 107 deceased donor intestinal transplants were performed, down from 111 in 2001, according to OPTN data. In 2002, one living donor intestinal transplant was performed, down from three in 2000.
©2003 Gina Comparini |
