Preventive operations in transplantation surgery

: Historically, there are three phases of development: initially, prophylactic operations in transplant candidates were performed frequently, particularly to minimize complications of infection and stress ulceration. As a consequence of advanced experience and reduced immuno-suppression, the need for those operations declined. Today, by extending transplant indications to elderly patients and to more complicated situations, prophylactic surgery-particularly for concomitant cardiovascular disease-plays an increasing role. Indications for prophylactic surgery are also provided in endocrinal, oncologic and immunologic conditions.