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Updated: Sep 15, 2025
A Heterotopic Mouse Model for Studying Laryngeal Transplantation
Published on: January 13, 2023
Thyroid function and viability after larynx-trachea-thyroid allotransplantation: a case series
Liu Wang1,2, Mailudan Ainiwaer3, Qing Shao1,2
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
Introduction:
Larynx-trachea-thyroid allotransplantation is a multi-organ cluster transplant that involves both solid organs and the thyroid gland. Thyroid dysfunction is frequently reported after an organ transplant. However, there are few reports neither about the thyroid function after laryngeal allotransplantation nor about the feasibility of thyroid allotransplantation.
Methods:
We collected preoperative data and conducted follow-ups on three patients who underwent larynx-trachea-thyroid allotransplantation at the Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery in West China Hospital. Thyroid function and viability were evaluated perioperatively and after discharge using thyroid ultrasound, serological tests, and pathological examinations.
Results:
The first patient experienced euthyroid sick syndrome (ESS) post-transplant, with persistently low levels of free triiodothyronine during follow-up. The second patient, who received a graft from a donor with Graves' disease, developed thyrotoxicosis post-transplant, which was subsequently diagnosed as hyperthyroidism. Pathological examination revealed lymphocytic thyroiditis 9 months post-transplant. The third patient also developed ESS and subclinical hypothyroidism following the transplant. Thyroid ultrasound and biopsy were conducted on all patients, indicating good graft viability and no evidence of immunological rejection.
Conclusion:
Thyroid dysfunction is frequent after larynx-trachea-thyroid allotransplantation and careful monitoring is critical. Thyroid allotransplantation is feasible and might be an alternative for special candidates.
