Ethical and Psychological Considerations in Facial Transplantation

Speaker(s)

• 

  Brendan Parent, JD

  Director, Center for Applied Health at NYU School of Professional Studies
  New York University School of Medicine

  Nothing to disclose

Vascularized composite allotransplantation of the face has developed into a powerful yet controversial tool to restore form and function after devastating facial injuries. The technical aspects of facial transplantation have evolved since the first facial transplant was performed in 2005 in France. Despite improvements in functional outcomes, concerns remain regarding the impact of lifelong immunosuppression and selection of potential candidates. This session will review the technical aspects of vascularized composite allotransplantation, advances in immunosuppressive regimens, and ethical and psychological implications of this evolving field.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the indications and technical considerations of composite facial allotransplantation.
• Describe advances in immunosuppression allowing expansion of the range of possible transplants.
• Become familiar with the ethical implications of face transplantation and psychological impact on the recipient and donor.