In this video, we take you through a Total Pancreatectomy with Islet Autotransplantation (TPIAT)—one of the most complex abdominal surgeries performed in children. Learn about who qualifies for TPIAT, the surgical process, and the critical role of the lab team in isolating islet cells for infusion.

From patient evaluation to the OR, lab preparation, and postoperative care, you’ll see how multiple specialists—surgeons, lab physicians, GI experts, and critical care teams—work together to ensure successful outcomes.Join Dr. Juan Gurria for a behind-the-scenes look at TPIAT, brought to you by the Pancreas Care Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

Main Takeaways

1. TPIAT is a complex procedure for patients with chronic or acute recurrent pancreatitis who have failed all medical and endoscopic therapies. It involves pancreas removal, islet cell processing, and infusion into the liver.
2. A multidisciplinary approach is key to success, involving extensive preoperative planning, precision surgery, lab-based islet cell isolation, and meticulous postoperative care.

0:08 Introduction

0:49 What is Total Pancreatectomy with Islet Autotransplantation?

1:02 Who are the candidates for TPIAT?

1:23 Pre-op evaluation

2:13 Step-by-step overview of TPIAT surgery

7:42 Post-op Care

9:07 Summary

Host: Cecilia Gigena, MD