Abstract
The purpose of this article is to share our institution's experience in optimizing
the suitability of composite donor tissue for use in hand transplantation. The centerpiece
of this process includes procurement techniques, preservation and timing issues, and
anatomical matching. Recovery of the donor hand must proceed in an efficient, organized,
and expedient manner. Proper timing of the donor operation not only ensures the quality
of donor tissue and outcome for the hand recipient, but also allows surgeons recovering
other organs to obtain high quality tissue for those recipients. Timing remains a
critical factor in preserving tissue after removal from the donor. We will also consider
the factors of temperature and preservation solution during transport.
Keywords
hand transplantation - hand donor operation - hand procurement - hand recovery
