TPIAT may be an option if you:

• Have experienced severe, recurring pancreatitis pain for more than 6 months
• Have been hospitalized one or more times for pancreatitis
• Have not improved with standard treatments
• Are free from tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drug use (for at least 6 months)
• Are willing to accept the possibility of developing insulin-dependent diabetes
• Can commit to lifelong pancreatic enzyme replacement
• Are able to follow specific medical and nutritional guidance

If this sounds like you, we’d be honored to meet with you and explore your options. We’ll carefully review your health history, lifestyle, and pancreas function to help you decide if TPIAT is the right path forward.

Before Surgery

1. Your primary care provider sends a referral.
2. We review your medical records.
3. Our nurse coordinator reaches out to guide you through the process.
4. We arrange lab work and imaging (e.g., MRI, CT, enzyme testing).
5. You attend your first appointments with our pancreatitis team.
6. We coordinate additional visits with pain specialists, psychologists, endocrinologists, and nutritionists.
7. Our full team meets to review your case and confirm eligibility.
8. If appropriate, we schedule your surgery and pre-operative appointments.

Note: Ongoing tobacco use or heavy alcohol/drug use will disqualify you from this procedure.

After Surgery

1. You'll be admitted on the day of surgery. During the operation:
   • The pancreas is removed and processed to isolate the islet cells.
   • These cells are infused into the liver through the portal vein.
2. Expect a hospital stay of about 10–14 days.
3. If you're from out of town, you’ll need to stay in Portland for about one month post-discharge with a caregiver.
4. You'll have frequent checkups (1–2 times/week) and lab tests during early recovery.
5. Pain medications will be gradually reduced under your doctor's guidance.
6. You’ll begin lifelong enzyme replacement therapy for digestion.
7. Most patients will need insulin for at least several months. Some may need it long term. Our endocrinology team will support you throughout this transition.

TPIAT is not the only treatment for chronic pancreatitis. Other options include:

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Pain Management

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Opioid therapy (as needed and carefully monitored)
• Celiac plexus nerve block

Endoscopic and Surgical Interventions

• Pancreatic duct stenting
• Drainage and decompression surgeries
• Modified Whipple procedure

Experimental Therapies

• Antioxidant treatments

We will walk you through all available options so you can make an informed decision.

Most insurance plans cover TPIAT and related costs, including enzyme therapy and insulin if needed. However, it’s important to check with your insurer. Our financial counselors can help clarify coverage and out-of-pocket expenses before you proceed.

For out-of-town patients:

You may also need to plan for travel and lodging costs. Some Portland hotels offer medical discounts. OHSU’s Gary and Christine Rood Family Pavilion offers affordable lodging for eligible patients and families. A referral from your provider is required.

If you are a patient:

Talk to your provider about whether TPIAT might be right for you. They can place a referral by calling:

OHSU Digestive Health Center: (503) 494-4373

If you are a provider:

To refer a patient with chronic pancreatitis:

OHSU 24-hour Consult Line: (800) 245-6478

Digestive Health Center: (503) 494-4373

For questions, you or your provider may also contact:

Lisa Bloker, RN, BSN – Nurse Coordinator

(503) 494-4373

Our TPIAT program brings together experts across multiple specialties:

Program & Patient Care Coordinator

Lisa Bloker RN, BSN 

• Lisa Bloker, RN, BSN, David Woodland, MD, Alex Smith, Bonnie Goff