Robot-Assisted Total Pancreatectomy With Autologous Islet Cell Transplantation: Perioperative Nursing Considerations

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas that causes pain and gastrointestinal problems in patients. Robot-assisted total pancreatectomy with autologous islet cell transplantation (TPAIT) is a surgical procedure for treating patients with CP that has been unresponsive to other treatments. After performing a total pancreatectomy, the surgical team isolates islet cells and then infuses them into the patient's liver. To provide the best possible care for patients undergoing TPAIT, perioperative nurses should understand the physiological functions of the pancreas, the etiology of and treatment options for CP, and their role in coordinating care for this patient population. This article discusses the disease process for CP, reasons for choosing the robotic approach to TPAIT, preparation of the OR for the procedure, the role of the RN circulator during a robot-assisted TPAIT, and nursing management of the patient during the postoperative phase of care.