Authors' objectives:

This report aims to provide a systematic evidence review on the outcomes of islet transplantation, particularly using the Edmonton or a subsequently developed islet transplant protocol.

Authors' recommendations: Evidence on outcomes of islet transplant is limited by small patient numbers, short followup, and lack of standardized reporting. (These issues are being addressed by the NIH-funded Collaborative Islet Transplant Registry.) Of 37 patients from three centers, 28 (76 percent) maintained insulin independence at 1 year (published evidence); similarly, 50 to 90 percent of 104 patients from four centers were insulin independent (supplemental evidence). Serious adverse events, including portal vein thrombosis and hemorrhage, occur infrequently. Data are lacking on long-term durability of the procedure, effects on diabetic complications, or long-term consequences of immunosuppression. Evidence is insufficient for comparison with whole-organ pancreas transplant.

Authors' methods: Systematic review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/tp/islettp.htm

Year Published: 2004

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: United States

Organisation Name: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality

Contact Address: Center for Outcomes and Evidence Technology Assessment Program, 540 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD 20850, USA. Tel: +1 301 427 1610; Fax: +1 301 427 1639;

Contact Name: martin.erlichman@ahrq.hhs.gov

Contact Email: martin.erlichman@ahrq.hhs.gov

Copyright: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)