Whole-Eye Transplantation: How Far Are We From a Breakthrough?

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Transplantation Medicine

Background:

• Traumatic facial injuries often lead to eye enucleation, significantly impacting patients' lives.
• Whole-eye transplantation (WET) has historically been a challenging but sought-after reconstructive procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on whole-eye transplantation (WET).
• To assess the existing challenges and ethical considerations for WET programs.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review methodology was employed.
• Literature search using pertinent keywords across scientific databases.
• Focus on articles related to ocular restoration and reconstructive surgery.

Main Results:

• Surgical innovations, including vascularized composite allotransplantation, enable consideration of WET in facial transplant planning.
• CD34-positive stem cells show potential as neuroprotective agents in WET.
• Successful WET requires careful consideration of vascular and neural structures, alongside advancements in microsurgical techniques.

Conclusions:

• Whole-eye transplantation (WET) holds significant potential for improving quality of life in patients with severe facial trauma.
• Further research is necessary to establish the long-term viability and efficacy of WET.