Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: Alternatives and Catch-22s

What is it about?

Hand, face, penis, and lower extremity transplants are types of reconstructive transplantation. These new techniques offer promising benefits, but are still considered risky because patients are required to undergo immunosuppressive treatment for the rest of their lives. It is important to consider alternative surgical procedures for these unique patients not only as definitive treatment for their disfigurement/amputation, but also as a contingency plan in case their reconstructive transplant has to be removed.

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