Intestinal Transplant

An intestinal transplant is a treatment option for children and adults with irreversible intestinal failure who develop life-threatening complications from total parenteral nutrition (TPN), which provides nutrition intravenously. TPN provides liquid nutrition through a catheter or needle inserted into a vein in the arm, groin, neck or chest. Long-term TPN can result in complications including bone disorders, central venous catheter infections and liver failure. Over time, TPN also can damage veins used to administer the nutrition via the catheter.

Intestinal transplant may be a life saving treatment for select children with intestinal failure. After receiving an intestinal transplant, patients can be transitioned from TPN to an oral diet, thus improving their health and quality of life.

One of the largest and most highly regarded programs in the country, the Organ Transplant Program at UCSF Children's Hospital is one of the few in the country that performs pediatric intestinal transplant. We are leaders in kidney and liver transplants for children, attracting patients from throughout the West Coast. Some children, such as those who have intestinal failure and irreversible liver failure, may require a combined intestinal transplant and liver transplant.

As pediatric specialists, we are experts at dealing with the challenges presented by the small, developing bodies of children, their difficulties communicating how they feel and their varying levels of maturity. Our team of intestinal transplant experts includes a pediatric surgeon, a transplant surgeon, liver specialists, gastroenterologists, nurses and nurse practitioners, social workers, child life specialists, pharmacists and dietitians specially trained in caring for children.

For help finding a doctor, please contact our Physician Referral Service:

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated October 16, 2008