What are are the advantages and disadvantages of having a pancreas transplant for people with diabetes?

Pancreas transplant: Pancreas transplantation is primarily done for type 1 Insulin dependent diabetics who are not too overweight, have comorbidities that are reasonable for surgery and who typically have episodes of hypoglycemic unawareness. The latter is life threatening. Results have shown significant improvement in quality of life and progression of the bad effects of damage by diabetes. Cons are immunosuppression.

Pancreas transplant: Type 1 diabetics do not make insulin, but if they get a transplant, the new pancreas would make Insulin and the sugars would be normal. It is like having a biologic Insulin pump that works perfectly. It is not a cure, but it is currently the most effective treatment available. The downside: it involves a big operation, lifelong immunosuppresion and is only offered to select individuals.