Restoration of the donor after face graft procurement for allotransplantation: report on the technique and outcomes of seven cases.

BACKGROUND

After organ retrieval, restoration of the donor is a legal and ethical necessity; this is particularly true in facial transplantation. However, very few data are available regarding this procedure.

METHODS

This article reviews the seven facial masks produced during seven consecutive face transplants carried out at Henri Mondor Hospital in Paris, France. The time of production, morphologic outcome, and donor family feedback were recorded. Technical tips and pitfalls are also discussed.

RESULTS

Recording an impression of the donor's face with alginate required less than 25 minutes and, in all cases, the production of a resin mask was completed before the surgical harvesting was finished. Although all morphologic results were satisfactory or very satisfactory, the best outcomes were achieved using a total face mask, avoiding color discrepancies. Family feedback was positive, and none of the funeral ceremonies was disturbed by the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

The production of a full-face resin mask is a reliable and reproducible technique. This procedure restores donor integrity and gives a very satisfactory morphologic and aesthetic outcome.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.