Outpatient follow-up
General
Signs and symptoms of problems such as rejection can be subtle and difficult to detect early. Delays in recognition of problems or diagnosis of problems can be life-threatening.
First Postoperative Months as Outpatient
All intestinal transplant recipients will remain in the Cleveland area for 3 months after discharge. Laboratory testing will be performed twice a week unless otherwise indicated. The patients will also be seen at least once a week in the clinic. Please contact your social worker or coordinator to discuss options for assistance regarding the cost of local housing.
First Postoperative Year
Patients will be seen in clinic every 1-4 weeks. Laboratory testing usually occurs on a weekly basis. All test results should be forwarded to the Cleveland Clinic. Many times it is possible for the recipients to be seen by their referring gastroenterologist on an alternating week basis with Cleveland Clinic visits (this is to be determined on a individual basis).
Beyond First Postoperative Year
Depending on the condition of the patient, visits are a minimum of 4 times a year. Laboratory testing should be performed on a weekly to monthly basis.