2530: Unilateral facial artery is sufficient for vascularized composite allotransplantation of the lower two-thirds of the face - Case report on a face transplant recipient at the Brigham and Women's Hospital

Abstract

2530: Unilateral facial artery is sufficient for vascularized composite allotransplantation of the lower two-thirds of the face Case report on a face transplant recipient at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Sebastian Fischer, Thomas C. Lee, Nicco Krezdorn, Muayyad Alhefzi, Mario A. Aycart, Harriet Kiwanuka, Thet S. Win, Ericka M. Bueno, Stefan Tullius, and Bohdan Pomahac Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA Background Facial allotransplantation provides a unique opportunity to restore facial form and function in severely disfigured patients. Using a single unilateral facial artery for vascularization can significantly reduce surgical duration and thus facilitate the practice of face transplantation. Patient and methods A 33-year-old man with a history of high-energy ballistic trauma received a facial allograft comprising the lower 2-thirds of the face, including maxilla and mandible. Vascular anastomoses involved one unilateral facial artery and 2 veins. Vascularization patterns, airway volume and facial functions were assessed before and 1 y after transplantation. In addition, immunosuppressive therapy and rejection episodes were recorded.