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The Helsinki approach to face transplantation
Andrew J Lindford1, Heikki Mäkisalo2, Hannu Jalanko3
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Töölö Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), University of Helsinki, Topeliuksenkatu 5, P.O. Box 266, FIN-00029, Helsinki, Finland.
Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery : JPRAS
|October 4, 2018
Summary
The Helsinki Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA) program successfully performed two face transplants for severe facial deformities. This program demonstrates a robust platform for future VCA procedures.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Transplant Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Establishment of the Helsinki Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA) program involved rigorous legal, ethical, and financial preparations.
- A multidisciplinary team, including plastic surgeons and transplant specialists, was assembled to manage VCA procedures.
Observation:
- Two patients with severe maxilla and mandible deformities from ballistic injuries underwent face transplantation between 2011 and 2017.
- The program meticulously addressed patient selection, informed consent, and immunosuppression protocols.
Findings:
- The first patient achieved significant aesthetic and functional recovery 30 months post-transplantation.
- The second patient recovered well with no major complications five months after full face transplantation.
Implications:
- The Helsinki VCA program's success provides a validated model for establishing future vascularized composite allotransplantation initiatives.
- This protocol serves as a proof of concept for expanding VCA to other anatomical regions beyond the face.
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