[The past, present and future of the reparative and reconstructive surgery].
OBJECTIVE
To expound the progress of the reparative and reconstructive surgery (RRS), especially in the recent 20 years, and the developmental direction in the future.


METHODS
We reviewed the information from many books, journals, and conference compilations concerned with RRS.


RESULTS
RRS emerged with modern surgery. After its development for 20 years, distinguished achievements were obtained in technologies, e.g., biological fixation of bone fracture, bioactive materials, stem cells, tissue engineering, bioactive factor, and induction/derivation regeneration of tissues and organs. Moreover, ideas were continuously refreshed in RRS, such as emphasis on the equal importance of donor and recipient in autologous transplantation, and of structural and functional restoration in dentofacial surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
Further research programs should be conducted, especially in the fields of creative theories, innovative techniques, and rehabilitation engineering.
Yang
Zhiming
Z
Division of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan, 610041, PR China. orthop@public.cd.sc.cn