Face transplantation in rats. Reproducibility of the experimental model in Brazil

Validation of Animal Models for Facial Transplantation Research

BACKGROUND

The development of consistent animal experimental models is important for continued research on specific biological and immunologic aspects of vascularized composite allografts. It is also important for the translation of immune regulation and tolerance induction strategies and treatment ideas from bench to bedside. The purpose of our study is to provide an outline of the use of animal models in simulated facial transplant surgery and to investigate the feasibility of animal model use.

METHODS

The animals underwent hemifacial flap transplant surgery. The flaps were placed on the external carotid artery and external jugular vein of the donor animal. Twenty-one procedures were performed in 4 different animals (6 rats, 5 rabbits, 6 dogs, 4 pigs). Two experienced plastic surgeons and 5 students performed allotransplant.

RESULTS

All 4 models were suitable for facial allotransplant with different anatomic characteristics. Average feasibility scores were 4.8 for pigs, 3.6 for rabbits, 3.2 for dogs, and 3.4 for rats. Evaluations concluded that pigs were the most practical and realistic models for facial allotransplant training. Other models achieved validation thresholds.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first comparative validation assessment of animal models used in facial allotransplant. It supports the use of pig models for surgical skills training. Pigs were the preferred simulation models, while rats, rabbits, and dogs were considered inferior models for transplant simulation.

Public's Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation and Donation

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this survey was to assess the public's knowledge and attitudes toward vascularized composite allotransplantation and donation.

METHODS

Members of the public (n = 5942) were surveyed using a questionnaire that examined their knowledge and attitudes concerning solid organs (kidney, heart, liver, lung, and pancreas) and vascularized composite tissue (hand/upper extremity, lower extremity, abdominal wall, and face) transplantations and donations.

RESULTS

Respondents demonstrated greater (all P < 0.05) knowledge and willingness to donate and/or receive solid organs than vascularized composite tissues. Educational level, accurate knowledge, willingness to donate, and willingness to receive were significant (all P < 0.05) determinants of acceptance to donate and/or receive hand/upper extremity, lower extremity, face, and/or abdominal wall.

CONCLUSION

The public presented less knowledge and willingness to donate and/or receive hand/upper extremity, lower extremity, abdominal wall, and face.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

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