Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens When a Cadaveric Pancreas Becomes Available?

As soon as a donor pancreas becomes available, the transplant coordinator will call you. Since this call could come at any time during the day or night, the transplant team should be able to reach you or your family whether at home, at school or at work. You should provide the team with the phone numbers of family members and close friends as well, just in case. When the phone call comes, the coordinator will advise you when to arrive at the transplant center.

If you are the recipient, plan to have a designated driver, someone available at all times and reachable by phone. If your child is the recipient, plan in advance or drive or designate a friend or family member as a driver. The route to the transplant center should be mapped out in advance.

If home is out of state or far from the hospital area, the transplant coordinator may help arrange transportation. Patients and their families who plan carefully can catch a commercial flight in plenty of time for a successful operation.

As soon as a pancreas is available, you will be advised by the nurse not to drink or eat anything. This is to ensure that your stomach is empty for surgery.