Incorporating Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons on Facial Allotransplantation Teams

Abstract

Facial allotransplantation was introduced more than a decade ago in France as an innovative means to restore appearance and function in patients with severe facial disfigurement resulting from high-energy avulsive incidents. Safety and feasibility were shown in several centers worldwide, and ethical and psychological barriers have been overcome. Facial transplantation evolved to include the entire face, both jaws, and tongue as reported by Dorafshar et al. 1 Dorafshar A.H. Bojovic B. Christy M.R. et al. Total face, double jaw, and tongue transplantation: An evolutionary concept. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2013; 131: 241 Google Scholar A standardized treatment algorithm based on classification of injury was developed because of wide variability across institutions performing transplantation. 2 Mohan R. Borsuk D.E. Dorafshar A.H. et al. Aesthetic and functional facial transplantation: A classification system and treatment algorithm. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2014; 133: 386 Google Scholar Facial transplantation teams, consisting of subspecialized surgeons well versed in microsurgery, craniofacial surgery, and esthetic surgery, are needed to handle the extensive reconstructive dilemma in patients with injuries not amenable to standard reconstructive techniques. Academicians have worked tirelessly since its inception to improve the technique. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs), particularly those with advanced training in craniomaxillofacial reconstruction, are encouraged to add expertise to the advancement of this life-altering procedure.