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Clinical Considerations for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation of the Eye
Edward H Davidson1, Eric W Wang, Jenny Y Yu
1*Department of Plastic Surgery †Department of Otolaryngology ‡Department of Ophthalmology §Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA ||Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China ¶Pittsburgh VA Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA.
Abstract:
Vascularized composite allotransplantation represents a potential shift in approaches to reconstruction of complex defects resulting from congenital differences as well as trauma and other acquired pathology. Given the highly specialized function of the eye and its unique anatomical components, vascularized composite allotransplantation of the eye is an appealing method for restoration, replacement, and reconstruction of the nonfunctioning eye. Herein, we describe conventional treatments for eye restoration and their shortcomings as well as recent research and events that have brought eye transplantation closer to a potential clinical reality. In this article, we outline some potential considerations in patient selection, donor facial tissue procurement, eye tissue implantation, surgical procedure, and potential for functional outcomes.
