Vascular Catastrophes Following Pancreas Transplantation: an Evolution in Strategy at a Single Center

Introduction: Complications of pancreas transplantation involving the arterial anastomosis are potentially life threatening. In this report, we review our experience with such vascular catastrophes.

Methods: Pancreas transplants performed between January 2003 and December 2009 were reviewed. All cases of pseudoaneurysm (PA) or arterioenteric fistula (AEF) were included.

Results: Of 346 pancreas transplants, 10 vascular catastrophes in nine recipients were identified. There were five PAs, one involving the pancreas allograft, one involving the donor iliac artery Y-graft stump following allograft pancreatectomy, two involving the kidney allograft, and one involving the bifurcation of the Y-graft. The latter was treated with coil embolization, but subsequently developed into an AEF. There were five AEFs including the recipient mentioned above. Four had a failed allograft and three had discontinued immunosuppression. The final case had a clamp injury to the proximal common iliac artery that fistulized to the donor duodenum. The management, course and outcome of all nine recipients are described in detail.

Conclusion: Vascular catastrophes such as PA and AEF are potentially life-threatening complications of pancreas transplantation. Immediate treatment at the time of bleeding is essential and covered stenting of the involved artery may provide immediate vascular control in these situations.