A case report of transplanted pancreas survival longer than 18 years after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation and literature review

Objective To explore the influencing factors and treatment strategies of long-term survival after simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantation (SPK). Methods One case of long-term post-SPK survival was reviewed and its influencing factors were analyzed along with the relevant literature. Results At 10 years post-SPK, the patient lost transplanted kidney due to rejection and underwent secondary kidney transplantation. The transplanted pancreas functioned well and has survived for more than 18 years. Conclusions Strict preoperative screening, adopting mature surgical approaches, aggressive managements of various perioperative complications, strengthening of health education of recipients, improving of compliance and long-term regular follow-ups are conducive for enhancing long-term survival of recipients and grafts of SPK. Key words: Simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantation; Diabetic nephropathy; Rejection; Regular follow-up