Anorectal Transplantation: Current Overview and Translational Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA)
• Surgical Innovation
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Severe fecal incontinence and permanent colostomy significantly impair quality of life.
• These conditions represent a global public health challenge.
• Current treatment options are limited for irreversible anorectal dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive narrative review of anorectal transplantation (ART) research.
• To analyze experimental studies in animal models and ex vivo investigations.
• To evaluate surgical techniques, procedural effectiveness, and functional recovery in ART.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental studies on anorectal transplantation.
• Analysis of ex vivo investigations and animal model studies.
• Comparison of different surgical techniques and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Anorectal transplantation is technically feasible.
• Ex vivo studies show acceptable surgical times.
• Animal models confirm graft viability and functional restoration.

Conclusions:

• ART demonstrates potential for treating severe anorectal dysfunction and permanent colostomy.
• Further research is needed to refine surgical techniques and immunosuppression.
• Advancing ART could offer a definitive solution for patients with irreversible conditions.