Uterine allotransplantation in ewes using an aortocava patch

Abstract

Mobility of the transplant within the pelvis, the length of the vascular pedicle and rejection can explain the high rate of transplant necrosis. The particular digestive anatomy and physiology of ruminants makes it difficult to administer an optimal immunosuppressive treatment. MRI appears to be a good non-invasive examination for graft estimation.

Might uterus transplantation be an option for uterine factor infertility?

“…The allogeneic uterus transplantation technique has been better defined with either end-to-end anastomosis of the uterine arteries and veins or anastomosis of an aortacaval patch to the external iliacs (20,21). Progress in composite tissue transplantation has been achieved with the development of new immunosuppressive therapy regimens (22).…”

Experimental uterus transplantation

“…Three pregnancies occurred resulting in one live birth by caesarean section. Allogeneic UTx was also performed in ewes with anastomosis of the aorta/cava unilateral to the external iliac vessels [43]. IS was maintained by cyclosporine and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and rejections monitored by vaginoscopy, MRI and second-look laparotomy.…”

Uterus transplantation: animal research and human possibilities

“…In the sheep, allogeneic UTx has been carried out with either end-to-end anastomosis of the uterine arteries and veins (50) or anastomosis of an aortacaval patch to the external iliacs (51). The former procedure could only be applied in a clinical situation where hysterectomy is performed as part of the procedure in the recipient, and the latter procedure would be applicable when the organ is recovered from a deceased donor.…”