Bengaluru: Karnataka has achieved a major breakthrough in organ transplantation with the successful completion of the state’s first “Pancreas After Kidney” (PAK) transplant. The landmark procedure was performed by the expert team led by Dr. Suresh Raghavaiah, who holds the distinction of performing the maximum number of pancreas transplants in Karnataka.
Until now, all pancreas transplants in Karnataka were performed as Simultaneous Pancreas-Kidney (SPK) transplants. This first PAK transplant brings a unique advantage to patients—it allows them to receive a kidney transplant early, get off dialysis quickly, and later benefit from a pancreas transplant that eliminates diabetes, improves quality of life, and protects the kidney from diabetes-related damage.
The Patient’s Inspiring Journey
The recipient, a 29-year-old woman, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 11. By 27, she developed end-stage kidney failure and was on dialysis for two years before coming to India for treatment. Her mother bravely stepped forward as a living kidney donor, enabling her to undergo a successful kidney transplant first.
After an uneventful recovery, she underwent the historic pancreas transplant by Dr. Raghavaiah’s team. Today, she is insulin-free and looking forward to a healthier future.
Expressing her gratitude, she said:
“I never imagined life without insulin. For 18 years, I lived with injections and later dialysis. After the kidney transplant, I felt hopeful, and now with the pancreas transplant, it feels like a new life. I can eat without fear, and my energy levels are back. I thank Dr. Suresh Raghavaiah and his entire team for giving me this second chance.”
Expert Insights on Immunosuppression Challenges
Managing two different transplanted organs presents unique challenges. Dr. Anil Kumar, the nephrologist involved in the case, explained:
“When you perform a pancreas transplant after a kidney transplant, the biggest challenge is balancing immunosuppression. The patient already has a functioning kidney graft, so we have to ensure that the new pancreas is accepted without compromising the kidney. It requires meticulous planning and lifelong follow-up.”
Why This Milestone Matters:
Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Suresh Raghavaiah said:
“PAK transplantation offers the best of both worlds—early relief from dialysis through kidney transplant and long-term diabetes control through pancreas transplant. It not only improves quality of life but also extends the lifespan of the kidney and the patient.”
With this landmark achievement, Karnataka has established itself as a leader in advanced organ transplant programs, and Dr. Raghavaiah’s team continues to set benchmarks in pancreas transplantation.
Congratulations to the entire medical team for this life-transforming success!
