Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: Military Interest for Wounded Service Members

Abstract

Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) is an extrapolation of the considerable knowledge gained over the past five decades of solid organ transplantation (SOT)—kidneys, livers, hearts, and lungs, among other organs—applied as a novel strategy for catastrophic loss of vital composite tissues, particularly those of the face and hands. Department of Defense (DoD) funding of the VCA field is substantial, reflecting the DoD commitment to making innovative approaches to caring for catastrophic injuries available to wounded service members. This article is an articulation of the ideals, goals, unknowns, challenges, and risks facing the DoD in the context of this investment.