The role of cellular adhesion molecules in surgery

The purpose of this review is to detail the roles played by the cellular adhesion molecules (CAM) in inflammatory and immunological reactions relevant to surgery. The interactions between leucocytes and endothelial cells which are mediated by CAM are central to the development of ischaemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) as occurs when blood flow is restored after an ischaemic period; for example, following revascularization of replanted digits and microvascular tissue transfers, angioplasty and tourniquet procedures. Cellular adhesion molecules are also important in wound healing and other inflammatory processes. In addition, the immunological response to organ allograft transplantation is mediated by cellular interactions mediated by CAM. This review details the functions and regulation of the various CAM involved in inflammation and allograft rejection and summarizes the results of previous surgical studies in which various techniques have been used to block the interactions mediated by CAM in an attempt to improve surgical outcomes.