Multi-Organ Transplant

Transplant Pharmacy - Life After Transplant

Nutritional considerations

After your transplant, while you are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or on the Multi Organ Transplant (MOT) Unit, you may be too weak or too tired to eat enough food. The doctor may decide to place a temporary tube from your nose to your stomach called a nasogastric tube. A special formula containing protein, fat, sugar and water will be put down this tube. Certain medications may also be administered through the tube. If you have the energy and appetite, you may still be able to eat the food that comes up on your tray but check with your nurse or doctor first. If your digestive system is not working well after your transplant then another special formula of fluid (also made up of protein, fat, sugar and water) may be given to you through your intravenous line. Both of these formulas are usually used for a short time only to provide you with the extra calories you need after your surgery to help with wound healing and to rebuild a healthy body.

Some patients develop high levels of cholesterol, fat and sugar in their blood after transplant. This may be related to certain anti-rejection medications that are needed after the transplant. As well, some patients have problems with weight gain.

The anti-rejection medications you need to take may require you to adjust your food intake. You may experience one or more of the following:

	an increase in appetite leading to excess weight gain
	an increase in blood fat and cholesterol levels
	an increased in your blood sugar level

In such cases you may be referred to a dietitian and/or a nutrition clinic that manages these nutritional issues to discuss the appropriate nutrition care for you.

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