Patient Resources

Our team views each patient as part of the UCLA family. We provide highly personalized care, with the same physicians and nurse practitioner treating you throughout the transplant process.

Before, during and after a transplant, we'll work closely with you so that you know what to expect at each treatment stage. Learn more about our approach to care. 

UCLA and the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS)

To learn more about pancreas transplant lists and the pancreas transplant match process, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) provides a toll-free patient services line to:

• Help transplant candidates, recipients and family members understand organ allocation practices and transplantation data
• Discuss problems you may experience with your transplant center or the transplantation system in general

The toll-free number is (888) 894-6361.

What to Know About Pancreas Transplant Evaluation

A life-saving pancreas transplant, auto islet transplant or kidney transplant is a major undertaking with very serious implications. Before we can add patients to a pancreas transplant waiting list, they undergo an evaluation. The evaluation includes:

• Assessing psychological and social issues involved in organ transplantation, such as stress, financial issues and family or other support
• Running blood and diagnostic tests to assess overall health status and improve the chances of a good match
• Giving immunizations and other preparations to reduce the chance of infection
• Considerating medical history and other information that could help determine your eligibility for a pancreas transplant

In UCLA's pancreas transplantation program, you work with the same transplant coordinator, starting with the evaluation and wait list process and continuing through your transplant and follow-up. Our team will know your name and understand your situation very well.

What to Do While Waiting for Your Pancreas Transplant

After your acceptance as a transplant candidate, your name will go on the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) list to await an available donor organ:

• During this waiting period, physicians will guide you in how to maximize your health so you are in the best condition possible for a transplant.
• Donor organs are assigned to recipients based on several characteristics, including blood type and the severity of the condition.
• It is important to remain available at the contact information you have provided, so we can notify you immediately when a pancreas is available.
• Your physicians will advise you on how to prepare for the transplant.

What to Expect Post-Transplant

After a pancreas transplant or a simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant, most patients remain in the hospital for one week to several weeks, depending on how complicated the case is.

We support patients after a transplant, including plans for care at home, transportation to clinic visits and education about after-transplant care, such as medications, clinic visit schedule and daily activities.

If you require local housing in the area during the time of transplant, your UCLA transplant coordinator and support team can help. Learn more about lodging and nearby services, including the UCLA Tiverton House.

Ongoing Connection to UCLA's Transplant Program

Patients often continue to receive follow-up care and monitoring from our physicians for years to come. Long after your procedure is completed, you will remain a member of the UCLA transplant family.