Evolving Concepts of Skin and Mucosal Biopsy in Facial Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation

Abstract Facial vascularized composite allotransplantation has ushered in a new era in treating complex facial injuries that cannot be reconstructed using traditional techniques. Multiple teams have reported their experiences in monitoring for allograft rejection using skin and mucosal biopsies. The association of biopsy findings and clinical observations are poorly understood and are continuously being redefined. We review the world’s experience in monitoring skin and mucosal histological findings in facial transplantation, review acute rejection, antibody-mediated rejection, chronic rejection, and describe our institutional experience in the monitoring and management of facial allograft histology.
Source: Current Transplantation Reports - Category: Transplant Surgery Source Type: research