Timely referral for intestinal transplantation may reduce mortality rates

Patients with irreversible intestinal failure have few options for treatment.

Current Guidelines indicate that home parenteral nutrition is the primary medical therapy where the patient receives nutrition through the bloodstream. But for those that it fails for, intestinal transplantation is the life saving procedure which can increase survival rates.

Knowing the criteria in which transplantation may be necessary will enable doctors to refer them when needed. Patient referrals for transplantation may come too late, and this may increase mortality rates among those on the waiting list.

"Irreversible intestinal failure is a condition which has a deep impact on the patient health and quality of life; it requires great organizational and economical efforts to the national health care system and professionals" says Dr. Pironi, lead researcher.

This research defines how many patients currently on home parenteral nutrition would be appropriate candidates for intestinal transplantation in both adults and children, therefore giving them the chance to be referred in time.

This study is published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.