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Facial Plast Surg 2021; 37(04): 528-535
DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1723766
Original Article

Facial Transplantation

Sydney R. Horen 
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
,
Joseph Lopez
2   Division of Plastic Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
,
Amir H. Dorafshar
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
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Abstract

Facial transplantation represents a unique surgical solution for challenging facial injury patterns in which conservative reconstructive techniques fail to provide a satisfactory functional and aesthetic result. With advances in the field of vascularized composite allotransplantation over the past 15 years, more than 40 of these procedures have been performed worldwide with two recent reports of facial re-transplantation. In this article we discuss the multidisciplinary approach that is required for successful transplantation as well as the surgical techniques used and postoperative management. With ongoing research, recent technological innovation, and increased efforts to promote greater generalizability and transparency in this field, patients with these complex injuries will continue to see improvements in their treatment options, and thus quality of life.

Keywords

vascularized composite allotransplantation - rejection - face transplantation


Publication History

Article published online:
08 April 2021

© 2021. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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