TP-IAT WITH KYSLECEL (AUTOLOGOUS PANCREATIC ISLETS) AFTER PANCREATECTOMY IS TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC PANCREATITIS.
For many patients suffering from chronic pancreatitis, pancreatectomy (removal of the pancreas) with islet auto-transplantation (TP-IAT) can provide significant pain relief with long-term glycemic control.
Kyslecel is made from your own pancreatic islets – the cells that produce insulin in your pancreas. Your surgeon removes the diseased pancreas (source of pain and inflammation), we transport the organ from the operating room to our laboratory, and where we preserve your islets to make Kyslecel. Kyslecel is then infused into your liver where the islets are expected to resume their metabolic function and produce the insulin needed to regulate your blood sugar. TP-IAT with Kyslecel is available for children and adults in the United States. It is covered by all major commercial health insurers, many state Medicaid carriers, and Veteran’s Affairs.
Most patients with chronic pancreatitis (nearly 80%) will eventually develop diabetes as the disease progresses and the pancreas degenerates. This is due to the decline of islet cell functionality and viability. TP-IAT with Kyslecel may be considered earlier in the course of the disease to preserve islet function before becoming diabetic which can improve long term outcomes.
Not every patient who undergoes TP-IAT with Kyslecel will achieve blood sugar control and some patients may require life-long insulin therapy. All patients will require life-long enzyme replacement therapy. TP-IAT is a major surgery and carries significant risks. You should speak to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks associated with TP-IAT and Kyslecel.