Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026

Vascularized Composite Upper Limb Allograft Harvesting for Proximal Arm Allotransplantation
Published on: June 13, 2025
The case for lower extremity allotransplantation
Matthew J Carty1, Ronald Zuker, Pedro Cavadas
1Boston, Mass.; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Valencia, Spain From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital; the Division of Plastic Surgery, Sick Kids Hospital; and Clinica Cavadas.
Lower extremity allotransplantation shows promise for amputees, building on successful upper limb transplants. Renewed consideration is advocated for this restorative therapy.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Transplantation Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) has demonstrated success in various body sites over 20 years.
- VCA for lower extremity amputees remains underutilized despite its potential benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential benefits of lower limb allotransplantation.
- To discuss the controversies surrounding this reconstructive treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of upper and lower extremity transplant outcomes.
- Analysis of existing evidence for lower limb allotransplantation.
Main Results:
- Evidence from upper and lower extremity transplants suggests lower limb allotransplantation is a viable option.
- The procedure may offer significant restorative benefits for amputees.
Conclusions:
- Lower extremity allotransplantation is a reasonable consideration for treating lower limb amputees.
- Further investigation and clinical trials are warranted to fully embrace this therapeutic modality.
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