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Innovation improving the quality of life |
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Intestinal Transplants
In 1966, University of Minnesota surgeons performed the first
intestinal transplant in the world. Over the years, researchers
have refined intestinal transplantation by improving surgical
techniques, using better post-transplant monitoring and more
effective medications to prevent rejection of the transplanted
bowel.
The main indication for an intestinal transplant is short bowel syndrome--the result of substantial loss or malfunction of absorptive intestinal surface. Absence or malfunction of 75 percent or more of the intestinal tract usually results in severe short bowel syndrome and the need for total parenteral nutrition (TPN). TPN supplies the body with nutrition intravenously by bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. Patients with short bowel syndrome are unable to maintain nutritional or intestinal fluid and electrolyte balance using their intestinal tract.
 Learn
more about the intestinal transplant program |
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 First human intestinal transplant in the world.
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First living-donor intestinal transplant in the region.
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First liver/intestinal transplant in the region.
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Only institution in the U.S. performing both living donor and cadaver intestinal transplants.
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