Allogeneic transplantation of the radial side of the hand in the rhesus monkey : technical, functional and immunological aspects.

As this is the era of transplantation it is inevitable that the field of allogeneic transplantation for the reconstruction of the upper extremity is explored also. This double-thesis deals with a number of aspects concerning allogeneic transplantation of the radial side of the hand in a rhesus monkey model. In the introduction the reasons for investigating the possibility of hand transplantation from one individual to another are clarified. In particular, the reasons why experiments in a nonhuman primate model were preferred, are explained. Should hand transplantation in man ever be performed, three major questions will always be foremost: is allogeneic transplantation of such a composite tissue allograft technically feasible, can allograft acceptance by the host be established, and if so will sensory and functional recovery occur? These questions inspired the authors to perform the experimental work presented. An attempt was made to integrate the major multi-disciplinary facets, clinically as well as preclinically. S.E.R. Hovius focussed on the technical and functional aspects of transplantation of this composite tissue allograft. H.P.J.D. Stevens examined the immunological aspects of this subject, and new ways to improve the immunosuppressive regimen for transplantation. Prior to the rationale of the experiments an introduction with regard to these aspects is presented