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Code deleted. See 48999

Official Description

Laparoscopy, surgical, pancreatic islet cell transplantation through portal vein

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Laparoscopic pancreatic islet cell transplantation is a surgical procedure designed to treat individuals with type I diabetes who experience significant challenges in managing their blood sugar levels through insulin therapy alone. This innovative treatment involves the extraction of insulin-producing cells, known as the Islets of Langerhans, from a donor pancreas. These cells are then purified in a laboratory setting before being introduced into the recipient's liver via the portal vein. The portal vein serves as a critical pathway, allowing the transplanted islet cells to migrate and attach themselves within the liver, where they can potentially resume their natural function of insulin production, provided that the surrounding conditions are conducive to their survival and activity. The laparoscopic approach to this procedure is characterized by its minimally invasive nature, which typically results in reduced recovery times and lower complication rates compared to traditional open surgical methods. It is important to note that while this procedure offers a promising solution for blood sugar control, patients may not achieve complete independence from insulin following a single infusion of islet cells, and additional transplant infusions may be necessary to optimize outcomes.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The laparoscopic pancreatic islet cell transplantation procedure is indicated for patients with type I diabetes who have difficulty achieving stable blood sugar control through conventional insulin therapy. This procedure is particularly considered for individuals who experience severe hypoglycemic episodes or have other complications related to diabetes that significantly impact their quality of life.

  • Type I Diabetes Patients diagnosed with type I diabetes who struggle with blood sugar management.
  • Severe Hypoglycemia Individuals experiencing frequent and severe hypoglycemic episodes that pose a risk to their health.
  • Complications of Diabetes Patients with diabetes-related complications that affect their daily functioning and overall well-being.

2. Procedure

The laparoscopic pancreatic islet cell transplantation procedure involves several critical steps to ensure successful transplantation of the islet cells into the recipient's liver.

  • Step 1: Donor Pancreas Preparation The procedure begins with the procurement of a donor pancreas, which is carefully selected based on compatibility and health criteria. The pancreas is then processed in a laboratory to isolate the Islets of Langerhans, the cells responsible for insulin production.
  • Step 2: Islet Cell Purification Once isolated, the islet cells undergo a purification process to remove any non-islet tissue and ensure that only viable insulin-producing cells are prepared for transplantation. This step is crucial for maximizing the chances of successful engraftment.
  • Step 3: Laparoscopic Access The surgeon then creates small incisions in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope and other surgical instruments. This minimally invasive approach allows for better visualization and access to the portal vein without the need for large incisions.
  • Step 4: Injection into the Portal Vein Using specialized instruments, the purified islet cells are injected directly into the portal vein. This method facilitates the delivery of the islet cells to the liver, where they can attach and begin functioning as insulin-producing cells.
  • Step 5: Monitoring and Recovery After the transplantation, the patient is closely monitored for any immediate complications. Recovery typically involves a short hospital stay, during which the patient's response to the transplanted islet cells is assessed.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients who have undergone laparoscopic pancreatic islet cell transplantation includes regular monitoring of blood sugar levels to evaluate the function of the transplanted islet cells. Patients may require ongoing insulin therapy, especially if the islet cells do not achieve full functionality. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the health of the transplanted cells and to manage any potential complications. Patients are also advised on lifestyle modifications and may need to adhere to immunosuppressive therapy to prevent rejection of the transplanted cells. Overall, the recovery process is closely managed to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.

Short Descr LAPAROSCOPIC ISLET TRANSPLNT
Medium Descr LAPS PNCRTC ISLET CELL TRNSPLJ
Long Descr Laparoscopy, surgical, pancreatic islet cell transplantation through portal vein
Status Code Not Valid for Medicare Purposes
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 99 - Other OR gastrointestinal therapeutic procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Deleted Code deleted. See 48999
2007-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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