[Small bowel transplantation].

Intestinal transplantation is the logical alternative to definitive total parenteral nutrition in patients with chronic intestinal failure. It has become a lifesaving procedure for patients with intestinal failure who cannot be treated using conventional therapies. In children (over 50% of the recipients) indications include short gut syndrome, primary disorders of intestinal motility and mucosal diseases. In adults, the major indication for intestinal transplantation is inadaptable short bowel syndrome after total or subtotal resection. Patients with irreversible intestinal failure and total parenteral nutrition dependency without consistent liver disease must be considered as candidates for isolated small bowel transplantation. Patients with irreversible intestinal failure and end-stage liver diseases are candidates for lifesaving procedure such as combined liver-small bowel transplantation. The appropriate timing for transplantation remains vague. Advanced disease has further consequences because a considerable number of patients may die of progressive liver failure or infection before suitable organs are available. Candidates for intestinal transplantation should be assessed early and should undergo transplantation.