Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation for end-stage renal failure in type 1 diabetes mellitus: Current perspectives

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the important causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal failure (ESRF). Even with the best available treatment options, management of T1DM poses significant challenges for cli nicians across the world, especially when associated with CKD and ESRF. Substantial increases in morbidity and mortality along with marked rise in treatment costs and marked reduction of quality of life are the usual consequences of onset of CKD and progression to ESRF in patients with T1DM. Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant (SPK) is an attractive and promising treatment option for patients with advanced CKD/ESRF and T1DM for potential cure of these diseases and possibly several complications. However, limited availability of the organs for transplantation, the need for long-term immunosuppression to prevent rejection, peri- and post-operative complications of SPK, lack of resources and the expertise for the procedure in many centers, and the cost implications related to the surgery and postoperative care of these patients are major issues faced by clinicians across the globe. This clinical update review compiles the latest evidence and current recommendations of SPK for patients with T1DM and advanced CKD/ESRF to enable clinicians to care for these diseases.

Impact of tacrolimus intra-patient variability in adverse outcomes after organ transplantation

Tacrolimus (Tac) is currently the most common calcineurin-inhibitor employed in solid organ transplantation. High intra-patient variability (IPV) of Tac (Tac IPV) has been associated with an increased risk of immune-mediated rejection and poor outcomes after kidney transplantation. Few data are available concerning the impact of high Tac IPV in non-kidney transplants. However, even in kidney transplantation, there is still a controversy whether high Tac IPV is indeed detrimental in respect to graft and/or patient survival. This may be due to different methods employed to evaluate IPV and distinct time frames adopted to assess graft and patient survival in those reports published up to now in the literature. Little is also known about the influence of high Tac IPV in the development of other untoward adverse events, update of the current knowledge regarding the impact of Tac IPV in different outcomes following kidney, liver, heart, lung, and pancreas tran splantation to better evaluate its use in clinical practice.

Invasive aspergillosis in liver transplant recipients, an infectious complication with low incidence but significant mortality

BACKGROUND

Infections, including invasive fungal infections (IFIs), are among the leading causes of mortality in liver transplant recipients during the first year post-transplantation.

AIM

To investigate the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, risk factors, treatment outcomes, and mortality rate of post-liver transplantation invasive aspergillosis (IA).

METHODS

In this case-control study, 22 patients with IA were identified by reviewing the archived and electronic medical records of 850 patients who received liver transplants at the Imam Khomeini Hospital complex in Tehran, Iran, between 2014 and 2019. The control group comprised 38 patients without IA infection matched for age and sex. The information obtained included the baseline characteristics of liver transplant patients, operative reports, post-transplantation characteristics of both groups and information about the fungal infection of the patient group.

RESULTS

The prevalence rate of IA among liver transplant recipients at Imam Khomeini Hospital was 2.7%. The risk factors of IA among studied patients included high serum creatinine levels before and post-transplant, renal replacement therapy, antithymocyte globulin induction therapy, post-transplant bile leakage, post-transplant hepatic artery thrombosis, repeated surgery within 30 d after the transplant, bacterial pneumonia before the aspergillosis diagnosis, receiving systemic antibiotics before the aspergillus infection, cytomegalovirus infection, and duration of post-transplant hospitalization in the intensive care unit. The most prevalent form of infection was invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, and the most common chest computed tomography scan findings were nodules, pleural effusion, and the halo sign. In the case group, prophylactic antifungal therapy was administered more frequently than in the control group. The antifungal therapy response rate at 12 wk was 63.7%. The 3- and 12- mo mortality rates of the patients with IA were 36.4% and 45.4%, respectively (compared with the mortality rate of the control group in 12 mo, which was zero).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the prevalence of IA among liver transplant recipients was relatively low. However, it was one of the leading causes of mortality following liver transplantation. Targeted antifungal therapy may be a factor in the low incidence of infections at our facility. Identifying the risk factors of IFIs, maintaining an elevated level of clinical suspicion, and initiating early antifungal treatment may significantly improve the prognosis and reduce the mortality rate of liver transplant recipients.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor use in kidney transplant recipients

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are novel oral hypoglycemic agents garnering much attention for their substantial benefits. These recent data have positioned SGLT2i at the forefront of diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD) and heart failure management. SGLT2i use post-kidney transplant is an emerging area of research. Highlights from this mini review include the following: Empagliflozin is the most prescribed SGLT2i in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), median time from transplant to initiation was 3 years (range: 0.88-9.6 years). Median baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 66.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 (range: 50.4-75.8). Median glycohemoglobin (HgbA1c) at initiation was 7.7% (range: 6.9-9.3). SGLT2i were demonstrated to be effective short-term impacting HgbA1c, eGFR, hemoglobin/hematocrit, serum uric acid, and serum magnesium levels. They are shown to be safe in KTRs with low rates of infections, hypoglycemia, euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis, and stable tacrolimus levels. More data is needed to demonstrate long-term outcomes. SGLT2i appear to be safe, effective medications for select KTRs. Our present literature, though limited, is founded on precedent robust research in CKD patients with diabetes. Concurrent research/utilization of SGLT2i is vital to not only identify long-term patient, graft and cardiovascular outcomes of these agents, but also to augment management in KTRs.

Evolution of human kidney allograft pathology diagnostics through 30 years of the Banff classification process

The second half of the previous century witnessed a tremendous rise in the number of clinical kidney transplants worldwide. This activity was, however, accompanied by many issues and challenges. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of causes of graft dysfunction were and still are, a big challenge. Kidney allograft biopsy played a vital role in addressing the above challenge. However, its interpretation was not standardized for many years until, in 1991, the Banff process was started to fill this void. Thereafter, regular Banff meetings took place every 2 years for the past 30 years. Marked changes have taken place in the interpretation of kidney allograft biopsies, diagnosis, and classification of rejection and other non-rejection pathologies from the original Banff 93 classification. This review attempts to summarize those changes for increasing the awareness and understanding of kidney allograft pathology through the eyes of the Banff process. It will interest the transplant surgeons, physicians, pathologists, and allied professionals associated with the care of kidney transplant patients.

Reasons and effects of the decline of willing related potential living kidney donors

BACKGROUND

Although the availability of related living donors (LDs) provides a better chance for receiving kidney transplantation (KT), the evaluation protocols for LD selection remain a safeguard for the LD's safety. These protocols are variable from one center to another, resulting in variable rates of decline of the potential LDs (PLDs). The decline of willing PLDs may occur at any stage of evaluation, starting from the initial contact and counseling to the day of operation.

AIM

To identify the causes of the decline of PLDs, the predictors of PLD candidacy, and the effect on achieving LDKT.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed on the willing PLDs who attended our outpatient clinic for kidney donation to their related potential recipients between October 2015 and December 2022. The variables influencing their candidacy rate and the fate of their potential recipients were studied. Two groups of PLDs were compared: Candidate PLDs after a completed evaluation vs non-candidate PLDs with a complete or incomplete evaluation. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess the factors contributing to the achievement of PLD candidacy.

RESULTS

Of 321 willing PLDs, 257 PLDs (80.1%) accessed the evaluation to variable extents for 212 potential recipients, with a mean age (range) of 40.5 ± 10.4 (18-65) years, including 169 females (65.8%). The remaining 64 PLDs (19.9%) did not access the evaluation. Only 58 PLDs (18.1%) succeeded in donating, but 199 PDLs (62.0%) were declined; exclusion occurred in 144 PLDs (56.0%) for immunological causes (37.5%), medical causes (54.9%), combined causes (9.7%), and financial causes (2.1%). Regression and release occurred in 55 PLDs (17.1%). The potential recipients with candidate PLDs were not significantly different from those with non-candidate PLDs, except in age (P = 0.041), rates of completed evaluation, and exclusion of PLDs (P < 0.001). There were no factors that independently influenced the rate of PLD candidacy. Most patients who failed to have KT after the decline of their PLDs remained on hemodialysis for 6 mo to 6 years.

CONCLUSION

The rate of decline of willing related PLDs was high due to medical or immunological contraindications, release, or regression of PLDs. It reduced the chances of high percentages of potential recipients in LDKT.

Renal allograft procurement from living unrelated donors in Iran: What falls under the eclipse

Renal transplantation is the treatment of choice for end stage kidney disease. However, despite all the efforts to expand the donor pool, the shortage of donors is increasing and as a consequence, there has been a significant increase in the number of patients on transplant waiting lists globally. Societies worldwide have employed different methods to address this, each with specific ethical concerns surrounding them. Over three decades ago, a governmentally regulated program of kidney transplantation from living unrelated donors was introduced in Iran and since practiced which has been the subject of hot debate in the literature. Nevertheless, despite all these extensive discussions and publications, several key aspects of the program have still not been properly elucidated and addressed. In this article, the author aims to illuminate some dark corners related to this issue that have largely escaped the notice of ethicists.

Is peri-transplant blood transfusion associated with worse transplant outcomes? A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Blood transfusion is common during the peri-transplantation period. The incidence of immunological reactions to blood transfusion after kidney transplantation and their consequences on graft outcomes have not been extensively studied.

AIM

To examine the risk of graft rejection and loss in patients who received blood transfusion in the immediate peri-transplantation period.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 105 kidney recipients, among them 54 patients received leukodepleted blood transfusion at our center between January 2017 and March 2020.

RESULTS

This study included 105 kidney recipients, of which 80% kidneys were from living-related donors, 14% from living-unrelated donors, and 6% from deceased donors. Living-related donors were mostly first-degree relatives (74.5%), while the rest were second-degree relatives. The patients were divided into transfusion (n = 54) and non-transfusion (n = 51) groups. The average hemoglobin level at which blood transfusion was commenced was 7.4 ± 0.9 mg/dL. There were no differences between the groups in terms of rejection rates, graft loss, or death. During the study period, there was no significant difference in creatinine level progression between the two groups. Delayed graft function was higher in the transfusion group; however, this finding was not statistically significant. A high number of transfused packed red blood cells was significantly associated with increased creatinine levels at the end of the study.

CONCLUSION

Leukodepleted blood transfusion was not associated with a higher risk of rejection, graft loss, or death in kidney transplant recipients.

Delayed referral for liver transplant evaluation worsens outcomes in chronic liver disease patients requiring inpatient transplant evaluation

BACKGROUND

Indications to refer patients with cirrhosis for liver transplant evaluation (LTE) include hepatic decompensation or a model for end stage liver disease (MELD-Na) score ≥ 15. Few studies have evaluated how delaying referral beyond these criteria affects patient outcomes.

AIM

To evaluate clinical characteristics of patients undergoing inpatient LTE and to assess the effects of delayed LTE on patient outcomes (death, transplantation).

METHODS

This is a single center retrospective cohort study assessing all patients undergoing inpatient LTE (n = 159) at a large quaternary care and liver transplant center between 10/23/2017-7/31/2021. Delayed referral was defined as having prior indication (decompensation, MELD-Na ≥ 15) for LTE without referral. Early referral was defined as referrals made within 3 mo of having an indication based on practice guidelines. Logistic regression and Cox Hazard Regression were used to evaluate the relationship between delayed referral and patient outcomes.

RESULTS

Many patients who require expedited inpatient LTE had delayed referrals. Misconceptions regarding transplant candidacy were a leading cause of delayed referral. Ultimately, delayed referrals negatively affected overall patient outcome and an independent predictor of both death and not receiving a transplant. Delayed referral was associated with a 2.5 hazard risk of death.

CONCLUSION

Beyond initial access to an liver transplant (LT) center, delaying LTE increases risk of death and reduces risk of LT in patients with chronic liver disease. There is substantial opportunity to increase the percentage of patients undergoing LTE when first clinically indicated. It is crucial for providers to remain informed about the latest guidelines on liver transplant candidacy and the transplant referral process.

Pre-Lung transplant reflux testing demonstrates high prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux in cystic fibrosis and reduces chronic rejection risk

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) has been associated with poor outcomes after lung transplantation for chronic lung disease, including increased risk of chronic rejection. GER is common in cystic fibrosis (CF), but factors influencing the likelihood of pre-transplant pH testing, and the impact of testing on clinical management and transplant outcomes in patients with CF are unknown.

AIM

To evaluate the role of pre-transplant reflux testing in the evaluation of lung transplant candidates with CF.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study from 2007-2019 at a tertiary medical center that included all patients with CF undergoing lung transplant. Patients with pre-transplant anti-reflux surgery were excluded. Baseline characteristics (age at transplantation, gender, race, body mass index), self-reported GER symptoms prior to transplantation, and pre-transplant cardiopulmonary testing results, were recorded. Reflux testing consisted of either 24-h pH- or combined multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH monitoring. Post-transplant care included a standard immunosuppressive regimen, and regular surveillance bronchoscopy and pulmonary spirometry in accordance with institutional practice as well as in symptomatic patients. The primary outcome of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) was defined clinically and histologically per International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation criteria. Statistical analysis was performed with Fisher’s exact test to assess differences between cohorts, and time-to-event Cox proportional hazards modeling.

RESULTS

After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 60 patients were included in the study. Among all CF patients, 41 (68.3%) completed reflux monitoring as part of pre-lung transplant evaluation. Objective evidence of pathologic reflux, defined as acid exposure time > 4%, was found in 24 subjects, representing 58% of the tested group. CF patients with pre-transplant reflux testing were older (35.8 vs 30.1 years, P = 0.01) and more commonly reported typical esophageal reflux symptoms (53.7% vs 26.3%, P = 0.06) compared to those without reflux testing. Other patient demographics and baseline cardiopulmonary function did not significantly differ between CF subjects with and without pre-transplant reflux testing. Patients with CF were less likely to undergo pre-transplant reflux testing compared to other pulmonary diagnoses (68% vs 85%, P = 0.003). There was a decreased risk of CLAD in patients with CF who underwent reflux testing compared to those who did not, after controlling for confounders (Cox Hazard Ratio 0.26; 95%CI: 0.08-0.92).

CONCLUSION

Pre-transplant reflux testing revealed high prevalence of pathologic reflux in CF patients and was associated with decreased risk of CLAD. Systematic reflux testing may enhance outcomes in this patient population.

Randomized intervention to assess the effectiveness of an educational video on organ donation intent among Hispanics in the New York metropolitan area

BACKGROUND

The Hispanic community has a high demand for organ donation but a shortage of donors. Studies investigating factors that could promote or hinder organ donation have examined emotional video interventions. Factors acting as barriers to organ donation registration have been classified as: (1) Bodily integrity; (2) medical mistrust; (3) “ick”-feelings of disgust towards organ donation; and (4) “jinx”-fear that registration may result in one dying due to premeditated plans. We predict that by providing necessary information and education about the donation process via a short video, individuals will be more willing to register as organ donors.

AIM

To determine perceptions and attitudes regarding barriers and facilitators to organ donation intention among Hispanic residents in the New York metropolitan area.

METHODS

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Northwell Health. The approval reference number is No. 19-0009 (as presented in Supplementary material). Eligible participants included Hispanic New York City (NYC) residents, 18 years of age and above, who were recruited voluntarily through Cloud Research and participated in a larger randomized survey study of NYC residents. The survey an 85-item Redcap survey measured participant demographics, attitudes, and knowledge of organ donation as well as the intention to register as an organ donor. Attention checks were implemented throughout the survey, and responses were excluded for those who did fail. Participants were randomly assigned two-between subject conditions: To view a short video on organ donation and then proceed to complete the survey (i.e., video first) and view the same video at the end of the survey (video last). No intra-group activities were conducted. This study utilized an evidenced-based emotive educational intervention (video) which was previously utilized and was shown to increase organ donation registration rates at the Ohio Department of Motor Vehicles. Results were analyzed using Jamovi statistical software. Three hundred sixty-five Hispanic individuals were included in the analysis. Once consent was obtained and participants entered the survey (the survey sample is presented in Supplementary material), participants were asked to report on demographic variables and their general impression of organ donation after death. The video depicted stories regarding organ donation after death from various viewpoints, including from the loved ones of a deceased person who died waiting for a transplant; from the loved ones of a deceased person whose organs were donated upon death; and, from those who were currently waiting for a transplant.

RESULTS

Using a binomial logistic regression, the analysis provides information about the relationship between the effects of an emotive video and the intention to donate among Hispanic participants who were not already registered as donors. The willingness to go back and register was found to be significantly more probable for those who watched the emotive video before being asked about their organ donation opinions (odds ratio: 2.05, 95% confidence interval: 1.06-3.97). Motivations for participation in organ donation were also captured with many stating the importance of messages coming from “people like me” and a message that highlights “the welfare of those in need”. Overall, the findings suggest that using an emotive video that addresses organ donation barriers to prompt organ donation intentions can be effective among the Hispanic populous. Future studies should explore using targeted messaging that resonates with specific cultural groups, highlighting the welfare of others.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that an emotive educational intervention is likely to be effective in improving organ donation registration intent among the Hispanic population residing in NYC.

Efficacy and safety of local candida immunotherapy in recalcitrant warts in pediatric kidney transplantation: A case report

BACKGROUND

Warts are common in recipients of kidney transplantation (KT). Resistant warts which are not amenable to conventional therapies may lead to significant morbidity. Limited data exists on safety and efficacy of local immunotherapy among immunocompromised KT recipients.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a seven-year-old child who presented with recalcitrant plantar periungual warts in the early KT period. Immunosuppression consisted of tacrolimus, mycophenolate and steroid. Due to failure of conventional anti-wart therapies, he was treated with two sessions of intralesional (IL) candida immunotherapy along with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy leading to complete resolution of the warts. Interestingly, de novo BK viremia was seen about three weeks following the last candida immunotherapy. This required reduction of immunosuppression and other anti-BK viral therapies. Allograft function remained stable but there were donor specific antibodies detected. There also was elevated level of plasma donor derived cell-free DNA. A pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia occurred ten months following completion of immunotherapy that was successfully treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. During this ten-month follow-up period, there have been no recurrence of warts, and transplant kidney function has remained stable.

CONCLUSION

Stimulation of cell-mediated immunity against the human papilloma virus induced by the IL candida immunotherapy is thought to be a cause for wart resolution. With this therapy, whether it is necessary to augment the immunosuppression to prevent rejection is unclear as that may come with a risk of infectious complications. Larger, prospective studies in pediatric KT recipients are needed to explore these important issues.

Mortality assessment for pancreas transplants in the United States over the decade 2008-2018

BACKGROUND

Pancreas transplant is the only treatment that establishes normal glucose levels for patients diagnosed with diabetes. However, since 2005, no comprehensive analysis has compared survival outcomes of: (1) Simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) transplant; (2) Pancreas after kidney (PAK) transplant; and (3) Pancreas transplant alone (PTA) to waitlist survival.

AIM

To explore the outcomes of pancreas transplants in the United States during the decade 2008-2018.

METHODS

Our study utilized the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Transplant Analysis and Research file. Pre- and post-transplant recipient and waitlist characteristics and the most recent recipient transplant and mortality status were used. We included all patients with type I diabetes listed for pancreas or kidney-pancreas transplant between May 31, 2008 and May 31, 2018. Patients were grouped into one of three transplant types: SPK, PAK, or PTA.

RESULTS

The adjusted Cox proportional hazards models comparing survival between transplanted and non-transplanted patients in each transplant type group showed that patients who underwent an SPK transplant exhibited a significantly reduced hazard of mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.21, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.19-0.25] compared to those not transplanted. Neither PAK transplanted patients (HR = 1.68, 95%CI: 0.99-2.87) nor PTA patients (HR = 1.01, 95%CI: 0.53-1.95) experienced significantly different hazards of mortality compared to patients who did not receive a transplant.

CONCLUSION

When assessing each of the three transplant types, only SPK transplant offered a survival advantage compared to patients on the waiting list. PKA and PTA transplanted patients demonstrated no significant differences compared to patients who did not receive a transplant.

Haemodynamic management in brain death donors: Influence of aetiology of brain death

BACKGROUND

In brain death donors (BDDs), donor management is the key in the complex donation process. Donor management goals, which are standards of care or clinical parameters, have been considered an acceptable barometer of successful donor management.

AIM

To test the hypothesis that aetiology of brain death could influence haemodynamic management in BDDs.

METHODS

Haemodynamic data (blood pressure, heart rate, central venous pressure, lactate, urine output, and vasoactive drugs) of BDDs were recorded on intensive care unit (ICU) admission and during the 6-h observation period (Time 1 at the beginning; Time 2 at the end).

RESULTS

The study population was divided into three groups according to the aetiology of brain death: Stroke (n = 71), traumatic brain injury (n = 48), and postanoxic encephalopathy (n = 19). On ICU admission, BDDs with postanoxic encephalopathy showed the lowest values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure associated with higher values of heart rate and lactate and a higher need of norepinephrine and other vasoactive drugs. At the beginning of the 6-h period (Time 1), BDDs with postanoxic encephalopathy showed higher values of heart rate, lactate, and central venous pressure together with a higher need of other vasoactive drugs.

CONCLUSION

According to our data, haemodynamic management of BDDs is affected by the aetiology of brain death. BDDs with postanoxic encephalopathy have higher requirements for norepinephrine and other vasoactive drugs.

Islet transplantation-immunological challenges and current perspectives

Pancreatic islet transplantation is a minimally invasive procedure aiming to reverse the effects of insulin deficiency in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) by transplanting pancreatic beta cells. Overall, pancreatic islet transplantation has improved to a great extent, and cellular replacement will likely become the mainstay treatment. We review pancreatic islet transplantation as a treatment for T1D and the immunological challenges faced. Published data demonstrated that the time for islet cell transfusion varied between 2 and 10 h. Approximately 54% of the patients gained insulin independence at the end of the first year, while only 20% remained insulin-free at the end of the second year. Eventually, most transplanted patients return to using some form of exogenous insulin within a few years after the transplantation, which imposed the need to improve immunological factors before transplantation. We also discuss the immunosuppressive regimens, apoptotic donor lymphocytes, anti-TIM-1 antibodies, mixed chimerism-based tolerance induction, induction of antigen-specific tolerance utilizing ethylene carbodiimide-fixed splenocytes, pretransplant infusions of donor apoptotic cells, B cell depletion, preconditioning of isolated islets, inducing local immunotolerance, cell encapsulation and immunoisolation, using of biomaterials, immunomodulatory cells, etc.

Intracranial pressure monitoring in the perioperative period of patients with acute liver failure undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation

Acute liver failure (ALF) may result in severe neurological complications caused by cerebral edema and elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). Multiple pathogenic mechanisms explain the elevated ICP, and newer hypotheses have been described. While invasive ICP monitoring (ICPM) may have a role in ALF management, these patients are typically coagulopathic and at risk for intracranial hemorrhage. ICPM is the subject of much debate, and significant heterogeneity exists in clinical practice regarding its use. Contemporary ICPM techniques and coagulopathy reversal strategies may be associated with a lower risk of hemorrhage; however, most of the evidence is limited by its retrospective nature and relatively small sample size.

Women’s health issues in solid organ transplantation: Breast and gynecologic cancers in the post-transplant population

The success of solid organ transplant has steadily improved which has led to a unique set of post-transplant issues. The rates of de novo cancer in the solid organ transplant recipient population are higher than those in the general population. There is growing evidence that breast and gynecologic cancers may have a higher mortality rate in post-transplant patients. Cervical and vulvovaginal cancers specifically have a significantly higher mortality in this population. Despite this increased mortality risk, there is currently no consistent standard in screening and identifying these cancers in post-transplant patients. Breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers do not appear to have significantly increased incidence. However, the data on these cancers remains limited. Further studies are needed to determine if more aggressive screening strategies would be of benefit for these cancers. Here we review the cancer incidence, mortality risk and current screening methods associated with breast and gynecologic cancers in the post-solid organ transplant population.

Long-term outcomes of pediatric liver transplantation in acute liver failure vs end-stage chronic liver disease: A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Children with acute liver failure (ALF) who meet the criteria are eligible for super-urgent transplantation, whereas children with end-stage chronic liver disease (ESCLD) are usually transplanted electively. Pediatric liver transplantation (PLT) in ALF and ESCLD settings has been well described in the literature, but there are no studies comparing the outcomes in these two groups.

AIM

To determine if there is a difference in post-operative complications and survival outcomes between ALF and ESCLD in PLT.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study of all primary PLTs performed at a single center between 2000 and 2019. ALF and ESCLD groups were compared for pretransplant recipient, donor and operative parameters, and post-operative outcomes including graft and patient survival.

RESULTS

Over a 20-year study period, 232 primary PLTs were performed at our center; 195 were transplanted for ESCLD and 37 were transplanted for ALF. The ALF recipients were significantly older (median 8 years vs 5.4 years; P = 0.031) and heavier (31 kg vs 21 kg; P = 0.011). Living donor grafts were used more in the ESCLD group (34 vs 0; P = 0.006). There was no difference between the two groups concerning vascular complications and rejection, but there were more bile leaks in the ESCLD group. Post-transplant patient survival was significantly higher in the ESCLD group: 1-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates were 97.9%, 93.9%, and 89.4%, respectively, compared to 78.3%, 78.3%, and 78.3% in the ALF group (P = 0.007). However, there was no difference in 1-, 5-, and 10-year graft survival between the ESCLD and ALF groups (90.7%, 82.9%, 77.3% vs 75.6%, 72.4%, and 66.9%; P = 0.119).

CONCLUSION

Patient survival is inferior in ALF compared to ESCLD recipients; the main reason is death in the 1^st year post-PLT in ALF group. Once the ALF children overcome the 1^st year after transplant, their survival stabilizes, and they have good long-term outcomes.

Primary graft dysfunction following lung transplantation: From pathogenesis to future frontiers

Lung transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with end-stage lung disease. Currently, just under 5000 lung transplants are performed worldwide annually. However, a major scourge leading to 90-d and 1-year mortality remains primary graft dysfunction. It is a spectrum of lung injury ranging from mild to severe depending on the level of hypoxaemia and lung injury post-transplant. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, outcomes, and future frontiers involved in mitigating primary graft dysfunction. The current diagnostic criteria are examined alongside changes from the previous definition. We also highlight the issues surrounding chronic lung allograft dysfunction and identify the novel therapies available for ex-vivo lung perfusion. Although primary graft dysfunction remains a significant contributor to 90-d and 1-year mortality, ongoing research and development abreast with current technological advancements have shed some light on the issue in pursuit of future diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

Transitioning of renal transplant pathology from allograft to xenograft and tissue engineering pathology: Are we prepared?

Currently, the most feasible and widely practiced option for patients with end-stage organ failure is the transplantation of part of or whole organs, either from deceased or living donors. However, organ shortage has posed and is still posing a big challenge in this field. Newer options being explored are xenografts and engineered/bioengineered tissues/organs. Already small steps have been taken in this direction and sooner or later, these will become a norm in this field. However, these developments will pose different challenges for the diagnosis and management of problems as compared with traditional allografts. The approach to pathologic diagnosis of dysfunction in these settings will likely be significantly different. Thus, there is a need to increase awareness and prepare transplant diagnosticians to meet this future challenge in the field of xenotransplantation/ regenerative medicine. This review will focus on the current status of transplant pathology and how it will be changed in the future with the emerging scenario of routine xenotransplantation.

Analysis of the effects of donor and recipient hepatitis C infection on kidney transplant outcomes in the United States

BACKGROUND

As Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV+) rates in kidney donors and transplant recipients rise, direct-acting antivirals (DAA) may affect outcomes.

AIM

To analyze the effects of HCV+ in donors, recipients, or both, on deceased-donor (DD) kidney transplantation (KT) outcomes, and the impact of DAAs on those effects.

METHODS

The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data of adult first solitary DD-KT recipients 1994-2019 were allocated into four groups by donor and recipient HCV+ status. We performed patient survival (PS) and death-censored graft survival (DCGS) pairwise comparisons after propensity score matching to assess the effects of HCV+ in donors and/or recipients, stratifying our study by DAA era to evaluate potential effect modification.

RESULTS

Pre-DAA, for HCV+ recipients, receiving an HCV+ kidney was associated with 1.28-fold higher mortality (HR _1.151.28_1.42) and 1.22-fold higher death-censored graft failure (HR _1.081.22_1.39) compared to receiving an HCV- kidney and the absolute risk difference was 3.3% (95%CI: 1.8%-4.7%) for PS and 3.1% (95%CI: 1.2%-5%) for DCGS at 3 years. The HCV dual-infection (donor plus recipient) group had worse PS (0.56-fold) and DCGS (0.71-fold) than the dual-uninfected. Donor HCV+ derived worse post-transplant outcomes than recipient HCV+ (PS 0.36-fold, DCGS 0.34-fold). In the DAA era, the risk associated with HCV+ in donors and/or recipients was no longer statistically significant, except for impaired PS in the dual-infected vs dual-uninfected (0.43-fold).

CONCLUSION

Prior to DAA introduction, donor HCV+ negatively influenced kidney transplant outcomes in all recipients, while recipient infection only relatively impaired outcomes for uninfected donors. These adverse effects disappeared with the introduction of DAA.

Changing landscape in living kidney donation in Greece

Patients with end-stage renal disease in Greece are facing long waiting times to receive a kidney transplant from a deceased donor. Living kidney donation offers a valuable alternative that provides optimal outcomes and significantly expands the donor pool but still remains relatively underutilised. Developments around the world in the field of kidney transplantation mandate a change in current practice to include additional options for living donation through paired exchange, antibody-incompatible transplantation and other strategies, following careful consideration of the cultural and ethical factors involved in these complex clinical decisions. An increase in living donation rates may be achieved in several ways, including targeted campaigning to overcome potential barriers. Educating clinicians on transplantation will prove as equally important as informing patients and prospective donors but requires training and resources. Adoption of established practices and implementation of new strategies must be tailored to the needs of the Greek donor and recipient population. Local beliefs about donation, perception of associated risk and other social characteristics must be considered in the design of future strategies. Facilitating living donation in a safe environment with appropriate donor and recipient education will form the solid foundation of a new era of kidney transplantation in Greece.

Exploring the use of virtual reality in surgical education

Virtual reality (VR) technologies have rapidly developed in the past few years. The most common application of the technology, apart from gaming, is for educational purposes. In the field of healthcare, VR technologies have been applied in several areas. Among them is surgical education. With the use of VR, surgical pathways along with the training of surgical skills can be explored safely, in a cost-effective manner. The aim of this mini-review was to explore the use of VR in surgical education and in the 3D reconstruction of internal organs and viable surgical pathways. Finally, based on the outcomes of the included studies, an ecosystem for the implementation of surgical training was proposed.

Translational research and innovation in modern transplant practice: Paradigms from Greece and around the world

The continuous clinical and technological advances, together with the social, health and economic challenges that the global population faces, have created an environment where the evolution of the field of transplantation is essentially necessary. The goal of this special issue is to provide a picture of the current status of transplantation in Greece as well as in many other countries in Europe and around the world. Authors from Greece and several other countries provide us with valuable insight into their respective areas of transplant expertise, with a main focus on the field of translational research and innovation. The papers that are part of this Special Issue “Translational Research and Innovation and the current status of Transplantation in Greece” have presented innovative and meaningful approaches in modern transplant research and practice. They provide us with a clear overview of the current landscape in transplantation, including liver transplantation in the context of a major pandemic, the evolution of living donor kidney transplantation or the evolution of the effect of hepatitis C virus infection in transplantation, while at the same time explore more recent challenges, such as the issue of frailty in the transplant candidate and the changes brought by newer treatments, such as immunotherapy, in transplant oncology. Additionally, they offer us a glimpse of the effect that technological innovations, such as virtual reality, can have on transplantation, both in terms of clinical and educational aspects. Just as critical is the fact that this Special Issue emphasizes the multidisciplinary, collaborative efforts currently taking place that link transplant research and innovation with other cutting-edge disciplines such as bioengineering, advanced information technology and artificial intelligence. In this Special Issue, in addition to the clinical and research evolution of the field of transplantation, we are witnessing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in medicine.

Outcomes of total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the increased use of total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT), systematic evidence of its outcomes remains limited.

AIM

To evaluate the outcomes of TPIAT.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from inception through March 2019 for studies on TPIAT outcomes. Data were extracted and analyzed using comprehensive meta-analysis software. The random-effects model was used for all variables. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² measure and Cochrane Q-statistic. Publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies published between 1980 and 2017 examining 1011 patients were included. Eighteen studies were of adults, while three studied pediatric populations. Narcotic independence was achieved in 53.5% [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 45-62, P < 0.05, I² = 81%] of adults compared to 51.9% (95%CI: 17-85, P < 0.05, I² = 84%) of children. Insulin-independence post-procedure was achieved in 31.8% (95%CI: 26-38, P < 0.05, I² = 64%) of adults with considerable heterogeneity compared to 47.7% (95%CI: 20-77, P < 0.05, I² = 82%) in children. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1C) 12 mo post-surgery was reported in four studies with a pooled value of 6.76% (P = 0.27). Neither stratification by age of the studied population nor meta-regression analysis considering both the study publication date and the islet-cell-equivalent/kg weight explained the marked heterogeneity between studies.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate acceptable success for TPIAT. Future studies should evaluate the discussed measures before and after surgery for comparison.

COVID-19 in liver transplant patients: Impact and considerations

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has significantly impacted liver transplantation worldwide, leading to major effects on the transplant process, including the pretransplant, perioperative, and post-transplant periods. It is believed that patients with chronic liver disease, especially those with cirrhosis, have a higher risk of complications from coronavirus disease 2019 infection compared to the general population. However, evaluation of coronavirus disease 2019 effects on liver transplant patients has not uniformly demonstrated worse outcomes. Nonetheless, the pandemic created significant challenges and restrictions on transplant policies and organ allocation.

Is the near coming xenotransplantation era relieving us from needing to look for more non-living organ donors?

Despite organ transplantation being the most successful treatment for end-stage organ dysfunction, the number of annual solid organ transplantations is much lower than that required to satisfy the demand of patients on waiting lists. The explanation for this phenomenon is the relative scarcity of non-living organ donors due to several factors, such as: (1) Late arrival of patients with a neurocritical condition to an emergency service; (2) lack of detection of those patients as possible organ donors by health professionals dedicated to procurement or by clinicians at emergency and intensive care units, for instance; (3) late transfer of the patient to an intensive care unit to try to recover their health and to provide hemodynamic, ventilatory, and metabolic support; (4) lack of confirmation of the physiological status of the possible donor; (5) late or incorrect positive diagnosis of the subject’s death, either due to brain or cardiac death; (6) difficulty in obtaining legal authorization, either by direct relatives or by the authority, for the extraction of organs; and (7) deficient retrieval surgery of the organs actually dona