When is Multivisceral Transplant the Right Treatment Path?
If you’re living with a serious, chronic condition that affects multiple organs, the journey to finding effective and lasting solutions can be a challenge. Multivisceral transplant, also known as multi-organ transplant, may offer the potential to restore vital organ function and a new beginning for some patients.
At Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, John M. Rivas, MD specializes in providing compassionate, patient-focused care for individuals with advanced liver and digestive diseases. Dr. Rivas and his team are here to guide you through the complexities of your condition, explore all available treatment options, and ensure you have the information and support you need.
When is multivisceral transplant the right treatment path? Read on to explore the factors that may make this procedure a viable option, the potential benefits, as well as the associated risks and considerations.
What is a multivisceral transplant?
Multivisceral transplant is a complex surgical procedure in which multiple damaged or diseased organs are removed simultaneously, and replaced with healthy organs from a donor. Depending on your illness, the transplant may include the liver, stomach, pancreas, small intestine, and/or the kidneys.
This life-saving intervention is typically reserved for patients with severe conditions that can cause irreversible organ failure. These conditions include:
- Advanced liver disease, such as end-stage liver failure or primary biliary cholangitis
- Severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Conditions affecting both the liver and intestine, like primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Complications of short bowel syndrome (SBS)
- Certain inherited metabolic disorders
While a multi-organ transplant is considered a last resort, it offers hope for those with life-threatening conditions when other treatment options, such as intravenous (IV) nutrition, are ineffective or cause significant complications.
Understanding the benefits
A multivisceral transplant may dramatically improve the lives of eligible patients. By replacing malfunctioning organs with healthy ones, your body can regain the ability to absorb nutrients effectively.
This can provide considerable relief from the debilitating cycle of malnutrition, chronic fatigue, and persistent pain that often accompanies serious illnesses like liver disease and IBD. Imagine enjoying a meal without discomfort, feeling full of energy, and finally escaping the limitations imposed by chronic illness.
While lifelong immunosuppressive and anti-infective medication may be necessary, studies indicate that a growing number of transplant recipients experience a substantial improvement in their quality of life following surgery.
When to seek expert care
Given the risks associated with multi-organ transplant — including the potential for rejection of the donor organs, infection, medication side effects, and other complications — expert care from a trusted professional like Dr.Rivas is essential for the best possible outcome.
Multivisceral transplant isn’t a decision to take lightly. Dr. Rivas carefully evaluates your individual circumstances to determine if this procedure is the best course of action for your needs and only recommends a transplant after eliminating other options.
It’s a complex surgery with inherent risks, but multivisceral transplants can potentially transform the lives of those with multiple organ failure. Call or click to schedule a consultation at Rivas Digestive Center today, and learn how we can help you on the path to improved gastrointestinal health.