Intestinal transplantation for motility disorders

Intestinal transplantation (ITx) has now become an accepted form of replacement therapy for intestinal failure (IF) and its complications. Disorders of bowel motility may represent up to 25% of patients on waiting lists for ITx. Some patients with short bowel as a cause for IF may also have dysmotile bowel. Underlying pathology of the intestine is heterogenous and may be due to abnormalities in the nerve supply, intestinal smooth muscle, or may be regarded as idiopathic (chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction). Outcome after ITx for dysmotility has previously been guarded, but providing the appropriate graft is used and taking into account the functional motility of residual bowel, it should not be different from other indications. The subject is reviewed emphasizing the potential pitfalls in case selection and management. The results of the ITx unit in Birmingham, UK are briefly reviewed.