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Updated: May 13, 2026
09:10
Heterotopic and Orthotopic Tracheal Transplantation in Mice used as Models to Study the Development of Obliterative Airway Disease
Published on: January 20, 2010
Laryngotracheal transplantation: technical modifications and functional outcomes
D Gregory Farwell1, Martin A Birchall, Paolo Macchiarini
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, U.S.A.
The Laryngoscope
|March 14, 2013
Summary
This case report details a successful laryngotracheal transplant in a patient with prior organ transplants. The innovative surgical technique restored airway, voice, smell, and taste, offering hope for future laryngeal transplant recipients.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Transplantation Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Laryngeal transplantation is a potential solution for voice restoration in patients lacking a larynx.
- Widespread adoption is limited by ethical concerns regarding lifelong immunosuppression for non-vital organs.
- This patient had existing immunosuppression due to prior kidney-pancreas transplantation, mitigating additional long-term risk.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old patient with complete laryngotracheal stenosis underwent laryngotracheal transplantation.
- Surgical modifications enhanced organ retrieval, vascular supply, and reinnervation.
- The procedure resulted in a well-vascularized transplant with early motor reinnervation.
Findings:
- The multidisciplinary team achieved a successful transplant with no signs of rejection.
- Post-transplant, the patient regained oral/nasal airway, vocalization, smell, and taste after 11 years.
- The patient continues to use a tracheotomy.
Implications:
- The described surgical methods demonstrate the potential for successful laryngotracheal transplantation.
- This case provides valuable insights into preparation, surgical technique, and rehabilitation for composite transplants.
- The findings may encourage further research and application of laryngeal transplantation.
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