Experimental models in primates for reconstructive surgery utilizing tissue transplants.
Two experimental models for tissue transplantation between unrelated individuals of a primate species have been designed to study survival and reinnervation. The first is a neurovascular free flap consisting of the entire soft tissue coverage of the index finger. The second is an entire hand transplant through the distal forearm. Ongoing studies show that cyclosporin A at high doses, in combination with a tapering regimen of steroids to a low maintenance level, permits prolonged survival of both transplant models. Careful biochemical, hematological, and cyclosporin A serum trough level monitoring permits use of this drug a very high dosages in primates. Continuing experiments should yield detailed neurophysiological data on the reinnervation of these transplants over the next 6 to 18 months.
D000818:Animals; D003524:Cyclosporins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006225:Hand / Q000294:innervation / Q000601:surgery; D063987:Hand Transplantation; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy; D007430:Intraoperative Care; D010215:Papio; D011182:Postoperative Care; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014180:Transplantation / Q000266:history; D014181:Transplantation Immunology; D014183:Transplantation, Heterologous; D014184:Transplantation, Homologous
D003524:Cyclosporins