[A hemifacial transplantation model in hares]

Area of Science:

• Surgical innovation
• Transplantation immunology
• Animal modeling

Context:

• Facial allotransplantation presents unique challenges in reconstructive surgery.
• Developing reliable animal models is crucial for advancing transplantation techniques.
• Rabbit models offer a suitable platform for studying composite tissue allotransplantation.

Purpose:

• To establish a novel animal model for studying facial allografts in rabbits.
• To evaluate the viability and vascularization of hemifacial composite tissue flaps post-transplantation.
• To assess the efficacy of different surgical techniques and immunosuppression protocols.

Summary:

• A hemifacial composite-tissue flap was harvested and allotransplanted between rabbit breeds (Livid blue and New Zealand white).
• Different surgical techniques for external carotid artery anastomosis and immunosuppressive regimens (cyclosporine, azamun, prednisone) were compared.
• The study observed high survival rates and robust blood supply to the transplanted flaps, validating the model's effectiveness.

Impact:

• This successful rabbit model provides a valuable preclinical tool for investigating facial allotransplantation.
• It facilitates research into optimizing surgical techniques and immunosuppressive strategies for facial transplantation.
• The model can accelerate the development of safer and more effective facial reconstructive procedures.