A pilot study in sub-SMAS face transplantation: defining donor compatibility and assessing outcomes in a cadaver model.

BACKGROUND: Face transplantation may become a viable alternative in the treatment of patients with severe acquired facial deformity. In this study, the authors investigate morphological compatibility between donor and recipient by assessing chimeric outcomes in a human cadaver model. METHODS: Four faces were harvested from fresh human cadaver specimens in a surgical plane deep to the galea, to the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, and to the platysma. The faces were subsequently exchanged among the four donor crania, simulating full-face transplantations. Eight cranium-face chimera complexes were created and analyzed with standardized photography and with volumetric computed tomographic radiography. RESULTS: Four morphological parameters to consider in determining donor/recipient compatibility were defined: (1) skin color and texture, (2) head size, (3) soft-tissue features, and (4) gender. CONCLUSION: Careful selection of face donors based on compatibility criteria will aid in ensuring that the posttransplant outcome is morphologically similar to the recipient's native face.

Duke Scholars

Author Jeffrey Robert Marcus Surgery, Plastic, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery

Author Detlev Erdmann Surgery, Plastic, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery