 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Doctor James Shapiro
Currently, the Edmonton Protocol procedure requires the islet cells of two donor pancreases. Since the availability of cadaveric pancreases available per year equal only 3,000, this leaves a maximum of 1,500 patients that can be helped through this procedure per year. This figure does not take into account the number of pancreases used for whole pancreas transplants or cells lost due to harvesting and purification techniques.
Possible transplant procedure complications include allergic reaction, bleeding at site of catheter insertion, blood clot in portal vein, possible puncture of other organs, pain, and infection. Currently, there have been few complications reported.
Rejection occurs when the immune system recognizes the transplanted islets as foreign and attacks them. The immunosuppressant medications, given after islet transplantation, reduce the risk of islet rejection, but also have side effects including weakening the entire immune system.
Cure 4 Diabetes Aids The Perfection Of The Edmonton Protocol
The Cure 4 Diabetes Foundation is dedicated to helping advance this exciting research. Donated funds will help in many areas, including:
- Overcoming difficulties in matching donors and patients.
- Eliminating costly immunosuppressant drugs and their caustic side effects.
- Reducing the overall high costs of the procedures.
- Lowering the risk for transplant patients.
