#United States #Richmond #VCU Health #Pancreatitis #TP-IAT

Highlighting Surgical Excellence in Chronic Pancreatitis

As we observe National Pancreas Awareness Month, it's crucial to shine a light on the remarkable efforts of the VCU Health Hume-Lee Transplant Center. This facility is known nationally for its innovative approach to treating chronic pancreatitis through a groundbreaking surgical procedure known as Total Pancreatectomy with Islet Cell Autotransplantation (TP-IAT).

Chronic pancreatitis affects more than 250,000 individuals across the United States. This condition often leads to severe pain and drastically diminishes one’s quality of life. Recognizing the urgency of treating such ailments, the Hume-Lee Transplant Center stands out as one of the few institutions capable of performing TP-IAT. This intricate surgery not only removes the unhealthy pancreas but also retains the body's insulin-producing cells, heralding a new dawn for those burdened by the debilitating impacts of chronic pancreatitis.

Dr. Aamir Khan, who serves as the medical director and surgical leader for the TP-IAT program, emphasizes the life-altering benefits this procedure can offer: “For patients who have tried every other treatment yet continue to experience daily pain, TP-IAT can be transformative. Our depth of experience prepares us to guide patients through this demanding procedure, allowing them to reclaim their lives free from pain.”

The Hume-Lee Transplant Center has successfully completed over 100 TP-IAT surgeries, making it one of the most seasoned institutions for this specific procedure nationwide. This substantial volume of surgeries has positioned Hume-Lee as a referral center for patients from the East Coast and beyond, filling a significant gap in healthcare services available for chronic pancreatitis.

Adding to their excellence, the National Pancreas Foundation has recognized the center as a designated Center of Excellence, further cementing its status as a leading facility in the treatment of pancreatic disorders. The success of TP-IAT at Hume-Lee is bolstered by the integration of surgery and cutting-edge scientific advancements. The center houses a state-of-the-art islet cell laboratory, where skilled professionals work to isolate and recuperate islet cells from each patient’s pancreatic tissue for successful transplantation.

Dr. Mazhar Kanak, who leads the islet cell lab, states, “Our designation allows us to support national research into islet biology and diabetes while improving outcomes for our patients.” This is an outstanding illustration of precision medicine, tailored specifically for individual patient needs. Not only does TP-IAT alleviate pain, but it also aids in reducing reliance on narcotics and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels for eligible patients.

With an interdisciplinary approach, Hume-Lee’s dedicated team comprises gastroenterologists, surgeons, endocrinologists, pancreas-specialized radiologists, and advanced endoscopists who collaborate to deliver personalized care for each patient before, during, and after their surgical journey. Each member of the multidisciplinary team is committed to ensuring every aspect of the patient's experience—from preoperative consultations to postoperative recovery—is handled with care and expertise, allowing for optimized health outcomes.

In conclusion, as National Pancreas Awareness Month unfolds, the VCU Health Hume-Lee Transplant Center exemplifies how innovation in surgical techniques is saving lives and offering renewed hope to individuals battling chronic pancreatitis. For further details about the transformative care available at VCU Health, visit vcuhealth.org/transplant.

About VCU and VCU Health

Virginia Commonwealth University, located in Richmond, is a distinguished urban public research institution known for its impactful contributions to various academic fields. VCU Health represents the health sciences academic programs, alongside the renowned VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and a robust healthcare system. Committed to enhancing community health, VCU Health operates several healthcare facilities, including the VCU Medical Center, which is the region’s exclusive academic medical center.