Some Results of Our Research on Composite Facial Allograft Transplantation in Dogs

Abstract

Composite facial allograft transplantation is a complicated surgical procedure, requiring evaluation of several questions. How should the facial allograft be preserved? What are the proper surgical skills to reduce surgery duration? Can composite facial allograft transplantation rebuild the motor functions of the facial muscles? In our research, University of Wisconsin (UW) solution was used to preserve canine facial tissue. We manipulated the surgical procedures of complete facial allograft transplantation on cadavers to improve surgery skills Canine facial allograft models with neuromuscular motor units were performed to evaluate nerve regeneration after allotransplantation. We observed that canine facial allografts could be preserved in UW solution for at least 18 hours. Superficial temporal artery and facial artery bipedicle flaps were safer and saved more time than single pedicle flaps from the external carotid artery. Facial neuromuscular activities were shown in the canine model by the blinking reflex.