Suolansiirto

Suolansiirto, also known as bowel transplant or intestinal transplant, is a surgical procedure to replace a diseased or damaged small intestine with a healthy one from a deceased donor. It is a complex operation typically reserved for individuals with severe intestinal failure who have no other viable treatment options.

The primary indications for suolansiirto include short bowel syndrome, extensive intestinal resection due to disease such as Crohn's disease or mesenteric ischemia, and intractable malabsorption. Patients often rely on parenteral nutrition (PN) for survival, which can lead to life-threatening complications like central venous catheter infections, liver failure, and thromboembolic events. Suolansiirto offers the potential for patients to regain normal nutrient absorption and eliminate the need for PN.

The procedure involves the removal of the diseased intestine and its meticulous replacement with the donor organ. This is followed by immunosuppressive therapy to prevent rejection of the transplanted organ. The surgery is associated with significant risks, including surgical complications, infection, and organ rejection. Long-term management requires lifelong immunosuppression and close monitoring for graft dysfunction.

Suolansiirto is a specialized procedure performed at a limited number of transplant centers worldwide. While it can be life-changing for carefully selected patients, it is not a cure and requires a lifelong commitment to medical care. The success rates have improved over time due to advancements in surgical techniques, immunosuppression protocols, and patient selection.