Pediatric intestinal transplantation: Literature review 2006-2007

Abstract

: The field of intestinal transplantation has rapidly progressed over the last few years, with greatly improved patient and graft survival rates. Pediatric patients actually comprise the majority of individuals referred for intestinal transplantation; therefore, most of the current literature on this subject is centered on such group of patients. Issues pertinent to patient selection, indications for transplantation and management of post-transplant complications run parallel to those issues of appropriate immunosuppressive protocols and avoidance/treatment of rejection, which is still one of the biggest causes of morbidity and mortality. This manuscript reviews what the authors view as the most innovative contributions in the field of intestinal transplantation over the last two yr (2006–2007). This review is by no means exhaustive but might serve as a starting point for those clinicians interested in the field.