Autologous Reconstruction of a Face Transplant Candidate. Issue 2 (June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rifkin, William J.; Bellamy, Justin L.; Kantar, Rami S.; Farber, Scott J.; Diaz-Siso, J.Rodrigo; Brecht, Lawrence E.; Rodriguez, Eduardo D.
• Is Part Of: Craniomaxillofacial trauma & reconstruction. Volume 12:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 150
• Page End: 155
• Publication Date: 2019-06
• Subjects: autologous reconstruction -- conventional reconstruction -- facial reconstruction -- face transplant; Face -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Face -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Maxilla -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Maxilla -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Face -- Surgery; Face -- Wounds and injuries; Maxilla -- Surgery; Maxilla -- Wounds and injuries; Maxillofacial Injuries -- Periodicals; Craniocerebral Trauma -- Periodicals; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures -- methods -- Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.522
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1675844
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1943-3875

Abstract

Since 2005, facial transplantation has emerged as a viable reconstructive option for the most severe defects not amenable to conventional reconstructive techniques, with promising aesthetic and functional outcomes to date. Key facial subunits and midface structures such as the eyelids, lips, and nose are now able to be successfully replaced rather than reconstructed, enabling adequate functional outcomes in even the most extensive defects. However, even in cases of severe facial disfigurement, the decision to proceed with transplantation versus autologous reconstruction remains a source of debate, with no current consensus regarding precise indications and inclusion/exclusion criteria. This report details the case of a candidate referred for face transplantation who ultimately underwent autologous facial reconstruction. Through this representative case, our objective is to clarify the criteria that make a patient a suitable face transplant candidate, as well as to demonstrate the outcomes achievable with a conventional autologous reconstruction, using a methodically planned, multistaged approach.