Simultaneous Pancreas Kidney Transplant
A SPK transplant is a treatment for patients with kidney failure and insulin-dependent diabetes. The kidney and pancreas are removed from a person who has died and given to another person.
The transplanted pancreas produces the insulin the recipient requires, and it reacts to the blood sugar levels of the recipient himself. The pancreas also produces enzymes (chemicals that break down tissues) not required by your body. Your blood vessels and intestines are united with the transplanted pancreas, and these enzymes flow into your gut.
Having an SPK transplant leads to improved quality of life and a longer life for most patients. This is because they no longer need to rely on dialysis; they have more freedom to fly, work, and they are more able to eat and drink. Most people say they have more time and they feel better able to cope with daily activities.