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Tissue Transplantation

Tissue Transplantation

Tissue transplantation is a significant medical procedure involving the transfer of cells, tissues, or organs from a donor to a recipient, with the primary aim of restoring lost functions. This procedure is crucial in treating a broad spectrum of diseases, including kidney diseases, liver failure, heart disease, and certain types of cancers.
The Biology of Tissue Transplantation
The biology of tissue transplantation hinges on the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. These molecules...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 20, 2025

Vascularized Composite Hand Allograft Procurement and Preparation for Distal and Proximal Forearm Allotransplantation: A Stepwise Approach

Vascularized Composite Hand Allograft Procurement and Preparation for Distal and Proximal Forearm Allotransplantation: A Stepwise Approach

Published on: May 23, 2025

The First Successful Combined Full Face and Bilateral Hand Transplant.

Elie P Ramly¹, Allyson R Alfonso¹, Zoe P Berman¹

¹From the Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York University Langone Health.

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

|June 8, 2022

Summary

This study reports the first successful combined full face and bilateral hand transplant in a severely burned patient. The groundbreaking procedure offers new hope for reconstructive surgery patients with extensive injuries.

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Last Updated: Sep 20, 2025

Vascularized Composite Hand Allograft Procurement and Preparation for Distal and Proximal Forearm Allotransplantation: A Stepwise Approach

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Orthotopic Hind Limb Transplantation in the Mouse

Orthotopic Hind Limb Transplantation in the Mouse

Published on: February 12, 2016

Area of Science:

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Transplantation Surgery
Regenerative Medicine

Background:

Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) advances reconstructive surgery possibilities.
A 21-year-old male with 80% TBSA burns presented with extensive facial and bilateral upper extremity defects.
The patient's quality of life and independence were severely impacted by the injuries.

Observation:

The patient underwent a 23-hour combined full face and bilateral hand transplant.
The surgical plan was refined through 11 cadaveric rehearsals and computerized planning.
Postoperative care included triple immunosuppression, infection prophylaxis, and plasmapheresis.

Findings:

The patient demonstrated significant functional recovery at 8 months post-transplant, approaching independence.
Improved range of motion, motor power, and sensation were noted in the facial and hand allografts.
The patient remained free of acute rejection episodes.

Implications:

Combined face and bilateral hand transplantation is a feasible and life-changing procedure.
This represents the most extensive VCA performed to date, setting a new benchmark in reconstructive surgery.
The technique offers a viable solution for patients with otherwise irremediable composite tissue defects.