Composite tissue allotransplantation: current challenges

Composite tissue allotransplantation (CTA) in the clinic is taking firm root. Success at hand, face, knee, trachea, and laryngeal transplantation has led to widespread interest and increasing application. Despite this, skepticism is common, particularly in the realm of reconstructive surgeons. The risks of immunosuppression remain a barrier to the advancement of the field, as these are perceived by many to be prohibitive. Significant progress in the field require the development of newer immunosuppressive agents with less toxicity and methods to achieve donor specific tolerance. This review focuses on the current state of CTA-both in the clinic and the laboratory. A thorough understanding of the immunology of CTA will allow the widespread application of this promising field.