About The Study: In this study, the overall survival of the face transplants is encouraging. These data suggest that the acceptable long-term survival of face transplants makes them a reconstructive option for extensive facial defects.
Quote from corresponding author Pauliina Homsy, MD, PhD:
"A total of 50 face transplants have been performed since 2005. Activity has been concentrated with only 18 centers in 11 countries giving this treatment. Our study demonstrates an overall 5- and 10-year survival of face transplants at 85% and 74%, respectively.
"The majority of patients with severe facial defects can be treated with conventional methods but there are those whose defect is too complex for it. The encouraging face transplant survival rate suggests that face transplantation can be a long-term reconstructive option for these patients."
