Technical Aspects of Living Donor Intestinal Transplantation.

Maria Jimena Alaniz, Elif Kortan, Ivo G Tzvetanov

Journal: Gastroenterology clinics of North America 2026;55(2):265-274

PMID: 42203393

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Abstract

Irreversible intestinal failure is associated with significant morbidity secondary to parenteral nutrition, including liver dysfunction, infections, and loss of vascular access. Living donor intestinal transplantation (LDITx) offers a potentially curative option, particularly in regions with limited deceased donors. The procedure is technically demanding, requiring meticulous management of small-caliber vascular pedicles and careful perioperative monitoring to minimize vascular complications. Ensuring donor safety through structured multidisciplinary evaluation is paramount. This article provides a detailed overview of LDITx, emphasizing operative techniques, graft procurement, and recipient procedure, highlighting strategies that optimize both donor and recipient outcomes while restoring intestinal function and quality of life.

Address: Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].; Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2026.02.005

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MeSH Terms: Humans, Living Donors, Intestines, Tissue and Organ Harvesting, Intestinal Failure