Laryngeal transplantation

Laryngeal transplantation is now a possibility for patients with irreversible laryngeal disease. The first animal model transplants took place in the early 1960s. In 1998, the first human transplant was performed. During this time, there has been a rapid progression in nerve and vessel anastomosis techniques and in the understanding and manipulation of immunoregulation. This review article highlights some of these important advances and suggests the direction of further investigations necessary before this treatment becomes part of an accepted surgical practice.