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Sousa C, Carton I, Jaillard S, Cospain A, Lavillaureix A, Nyangoh Timoh K, Juricic M, Lavoué V, Dion L. Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome patients' interest, expectations and demands concerning uterus transplantation. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2023; 52:102674. [PMID: 37805077 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2023.102674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To better understand patients' conditions and expectations before starting a uterus transplantation (UTx) program for women suffering from Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH syndrome). METHOD A web-based survey was conducted among MRKH patients via the French national association network from March to August 2020. The questionnaire comprised twenty-eight questions about their desire for parenthood, their condition's characteristics and previous reconstructive procedures, opinions and knowledge about UTx. RESULTS Among the 148 participants, 88 % reported a desire for parenthood, and 61 % opted for UTx as their first choice to reach this aim. The possibility of bearing a child and having the same genetic heritage were the main motivations. Once informed about the usual course of an UTx protocol, only 13 % of the participants changed their mind and 3 out of 4 of them opted for UT. CONCLUSION Uterus transplantation seems to be the first option to reach motherhood in patients suffering from MRKH syndrome. The development of UTx programs could meet the demands of this already well-informed population.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sousa
- Service de Gynécologie, Centre hospitalo-Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France
| | - I Carton
- Service de Gynécologie, Centre hospitalo-Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - S Jaillard
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France; Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie Cellulaire, Rennes F-35033, France
| | - A Cospain
- Service de Génétique Clinique, CHU Rennes, CLAD Ouest, Rennes, France; ERN ITHACA, Hôpital Sud Rennes France, Université de Rennes, CNRS, IGDR, UMR 6290, Rennes F-35000, France
| | - A Lavillaureix
- Service de Génétique Clinique, CHU Rennes, CLAD Ouest, Rennes, France; ERN ITHACA, Hôpital Sud Rennes France, Université de Rennes, CNRS, IGDR, UMR 6290, Rennes F-35000, France
| | - K Nyangoh Timoh
- Service de Gynécologie, Centre hospitalo-Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - M Juricic
- Service de chirurgie pédiatrique, Centre hospitalo-Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - V Lavoué
- Service de Gynécologie, Centre hospitalo-Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France.
| | - L Dion
- Service de Gynécologie, Centre hospitalo-Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France
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Brännström M, Racowsky C, Carbonnel M, Wu J, Gargiulo A, Adashi EY, Ayoubi JM. Uterus transplantation: from research, through human trials and into the future. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:521-544. [PMID: 37328434 PMCID: PMC10477946 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Women suffering from absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI) had no hope of childbearing until clinical feasibility of uterus transplantation (UTx) was documented in 2014 with the birth of a healthy baby. This landmark accomplishment followed extensive foundational work with a wide range of animal species including higher primates. In the present review, we provide a summary of the animal research and describe the results of cases and clinical trials on UTx. Surgical advances for graft removal from live donors and transplantation to recipients are improving, with a recent trend away from laparotomy to robotic approaches, although challenges persist regarding optimum immunosuppressive therapies and tests for graft rejection. Because UTx does not involve transplantation of the Fallopian tubes, IVF is required as part of the UTx process. We provide a unique focus on the intersection between these two processes, with consideration of when oocyte retrieval should be performed, whether, and for whom, preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy should be used, whether oocytes or embryos should be frozen and when the first embryo transfer should be performed post-UTx. We also address the utility of an international society UTx (ISUTx) registry for assessing overall UTx success rates, complications, and live births. The long-term health outcomes of all parties involved-the uterus donor (if live donor), the recipient, her partner and any children born from the transplanted graft-are also reviewed. Unlike traditional solid organ transplantation procedures, UTx is not lifesaving, but is life-giving, although as with traditional types of transplantation, costs, and ethical considerations are inevitable. We discuss the likelihood that costs will decrease as efficiency and efficacy improve, and that ethical complexities for and against acceptability of the procedure sharpen the distinctions between genetic, gestational, and social parenthood. As more programs wish to offer the procedure, we suggest a scheme for setting up a UTx program as well as future directions of this rapidly evolving field. In our 2010 review, we described the future of clinical UTx based on development of the procedure in animal models. This Grand Theme Review offers a closing loop to this previous review of more than a decade ago. The clinical feasibility of UTx has now been proved. Advancements include widening the criteria for acceptance of donors and recipients, improving surgery, shortening time to pregnancy, and improving post-UTx management. Together, these improvements catalyze the transition of UTx from experimental into mainstream clinical practice. The procedure will then represent a realistic and accessible alternative to gestational surrogacy for the treatment of AUFI and should become part of the armamentarium of reproductive specialists worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marie Carbonnel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
- University Versailles, Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, France
| | - Joseph Wu
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Antonio Gargiulo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eli Y Adashi
- Department of Medical Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jean Marc Ayoubi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
- University Versailles, Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, France
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Pérez-Blanco A, Seoane JA, Pallás TA, Nieto-Moro M, Calonge RN, de la Fuente A, Martin DE. Uterus Transplantation as a Surgical Innovation. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2023; 20:367-378. [PMID: 37382845 PMCID: PMC10624705 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-023-10272-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Uterus transplantation (UTx) research has been introduced in several countries, with trials in Sweden and the United States producing successful outcomes. The growing interest in developing UTx trials in other countries, such as Spain, the Netherlands, Japan, and Australia, raises important questions regarding the ethics of surgical innovation research in the field of UTx. This paper examines the current state of UTx in the context of the surgical innovation paradigm and IDEAL framework and discusses the ethical challenges faced by those considering the introduction of new trials. We argue that UTx remains an experimental procedure at a relatively early stage of the IDEAL framework, especially in the context of de novo trials, where protocols are likely to deviate from those used previously and where researchers are likely to have limited experience of UTx. We conclude that countries considering the introduction of UTx trials should build on the strengths of the reported outcomes to consolidate the evidence base and shed light on the uncertainties of the procedure. Authorities responsible for the ethical governance of UTx trials are advised to draw on the ethical framework used in the oversight of surgical innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José-Antonio Seoane
- Philosophy, Constitution and Rationality Research Group, Faculty of Law, Universidade da Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | - Montserrat Nieto-Moro
- Paediatric Critical Care Unit, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Dominique E Martin
- Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
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Graft Failure after Uterus Transplantation in 16 Recipients: A Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12052032. [PMID: 36902818 PMCID: PMC10003853 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12052032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterus transplantation (UTx) is now an alternative to surrogacy and adoption for women with uterine factor infertility to have children; however, there are still unresolved clinical and technical issues. One of these is that the graft failure rate after transplantation is somewhat higher than that of other life-saving organ transplants, which is a critical concern. Herein, we summarize the details of 16 graft failures after UTx with living or deceased donors using the published literature in order to learn from these negative outcomes. To date, the main causes of graft failure are vascular factors (arterial and/or venous thrombosis, atherosclerosis, and poor perfusion). Many recipients with thrombosis develop graft failure within one month of surgery. Therefore, it is necessary to devise a safe and stable surgical technique with higher success rates for further development in the UTx field.
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Uterus Transplantation: Revisiting the Question of Deceased Donors versus Living Donors for Organ Procurement. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11154516. [PMID: 35956131 PMCID: PMC9369769 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11154516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterus transplantation is a surgical treatment for women with congenital or acquired uterine factor infertility. While uterus transplantation is a life-enhancing transplant that is commonly categorized as a vascular composite allograft (e.g., face or hand), it is similar to many solid organ transplants (e.g., kidney) in that both living donors (LDs) and deceased donors (DDs) can be utilized for organ procurement. While many endpoints appear to be similar for LD and DD transplants (including graft survival, time to menses, livebirth rates), there are key medical, technical, ethical, and logistical differences between these modalities. Primary considerations in favor of a LD model include thorough screening of donors, enhanced logistics, and greater donor availability. The primary consideration in favor of a DD model is the lack of physical or psychological harm to a living donor. Other important factors, that may not clearly favor one approach over the other, are important to include in discussions of LD vs. DD models. We favor a stepwise approach to uterus transplantation, one in which programs first begin with DD procurement before attempting LD procurement to maximize successful organ recovery and to minimize potential harms to a living donor.
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6
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Dion L, Santin G, Nyangoh Timoh K, Boudjema K, Jacquot Thierry L, Gauthier T, Carbonnel M, Ayoubi JM, Kerbaul F, Lavoue V. Procurement of Uterus in a Deceased Donor Multi-Organ Donation National Program in France: A Scarce Resource for Uterus Transplantation? J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030730. [PMID: 35160178 PMCID: PMC8836780 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterus transplantation is a new possibility for women suffering from absolute uterine infertility to become pregnant and have children. In the case of a deceased donor, a list of exclusion criteria is defined to ensure the high quality of the uterus graft. This study evaluates the number of potentially available uterus grafts based on the pre-defined exclusion criteria in a national deceased donor multi-organ donation program in France. We analyzed the data reported in the CRISTAL database regarding all women aged 18 to 60 on whom organ procurement was performed between 2014 and 2019. Potential deceased women donors were classified into three categories: very ideal donor, ideal donor, and expanded criteria donor. Between 2014 and 2019, 4544 women underwent organ procurement. Using the very ideal donor, ideal donor, and expanded criteria donor classification, we found that, respectively, only 124, 264, and 936 donors were potentially eligible for UTx. This represents 2.8 per million people (PMP) very ideal donors, 3.8 PMP ideal donors, 8.6 PMP expanded criteria donors (ECDs). The restricted number of grafts requires a complementary strategy of living and deceased donors to meet the demand of all women with AUI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Dion
- Department of Gynecology, Hôpital Sud, Rennes University Hospital, CEDEX 9, 35200 Rennes, France; (K.N.T.); (L.J.T.); (V.L.)
- UMR_S 1085, IRSET-INSERM, 35000 Rennes, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Gaëlle Santin
- Organ and Tissue Transplant Management, Biomedicine Agency, CEDEX, 93212 La Plaine-Saint-Denis, France; (G.S.); (F.K.)
| | - Krystel Nyangoh Timoh
- Department of Gynecology, Hôpital Sud, Rennes University Hospital, CEDEX 9, 35200 Rennes, France; (K.N.T.); (L.J.T.); (V.L.)
| | - Karim Boudjema
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Pontchaillou, Rennes University Hospital, CEDEX 9, 35000 Rennes, France;
| | - Louise Jacquot Thierry
- Department of Gynecology, Hôpital Sud, Rennes University Hospital, CEDEX 9, 35200 Rennes, France; (K.N.T.); (L.J.T.); (V.L.)
| | - Tristan Gauthier
- Department of Gynecology, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges, France;
| | - Marie Carbonnel
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France; (M.C.); (J.M.A.)
| | - Jean Marc Ayoubi
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France; (M.C.); (J.M.A.)
| | - François Kerbaul
- Organ and Tissue Transplant Management, Biomedicine Agency, CEDEX, 93212 La Plaine-Saint-Denis, France; (G.S.); (F.K.)
| | - Vincent Lavoue
- Department of Gynecology, Hôpital Sud, Rennes University Hospital, CEDEX 9, 35200 Rennes, France; (K.N.T.); (L.J.T.); (V.L.)
- UMR_S 1085, IRSET-INSERM, 35000 Rennes, France
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da Graca B, Johannesson L, Testa G, Wall A. Uterus transplantation: ethical considerations. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2021; 26:664-668. [PMID: 34636768 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Uterus transplantation (Utx) offers women with absolute uterine factor infertility the opportunity to carry their own pregnancies. As Utx transitions from an experimental to standard clinical procedure, we review the status of the ethical issues applicable to the stakeholders involved. RECENT FINDINGS With more than 65 Utx procedures reported to date, evidence is accruing that enables the chance of success - a live birth - for the recipient to be weighed against the risks the recipient incurs through the Utx process, as well as risks to living donors undergoing surgery, to children exposed in utero to immunosuppressants and the uterine graft environment, and to third parties related to uterus procurement from multiorgan deceased donors. Experience has also informed aspects of recipient and donor autonomy that must be safeguarded. SUMMARY Clinical trial results provides a basis for weighing the interests of the stakeholders implicated in Utx, and so can inform transplant centers' and regulatory bodies' development of policies and protocols that will determine access to Utx and allocation of organs, together with other considerations of justice. Additional evidence, particularly on long-term outcomes, is needed, and new questions can be expected to arise as access to and indications for Utx broaden.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Liza Johannesson
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | - Anji Wall
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute
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9
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Harris CE, Issa NC. Risk constellations, viral infections, and prophylaxis in uterine transplantation. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2021; 26:646-653. [PMID: 34620783 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Uterine transplantation (UTx) is a burgeoning new category of solid organ transplantation (SOT) that is practiced at several centers worldwide (first transplantation in 2013). Although there are still relatively low numbers of transplants (<75 published in literature), they are increasing in frequency and thus we attempt to discuss the current documented infections in this population as well as theoretical infectious risks and summarize prophylaxis and treatment strategies of centers current performing these procedures. RECENT FINDINGS The most reported posttransplantation infection is not surprisingly urinary tract infections, with other documented infections including bacterial infections at site of graft (Enterococcus), herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), human papillomavirus, Candida, and reportedly posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder. The net state of immunosuppression and host factors (host colonization and serologic status of viral exposures) plays a significant role in infectious risk and with low numbers of infections documented, much of our guidance surrounding prophylaxis is inferred from SOT literature. SUMMARY In this review, we give an overview of described infections in UTx and theoretical infectious risks, detailing how to tailor prophylaxis base on host risk, with specific focus that the goal of transplantation is completion of a successful pregnancy as the desired outcome. Special considerations should be given to pregnant recipients when managing infectious complications and further data collection and reporting regarding infectious complications is crucial to advance this field as numbers of transplantation continue to increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney E Harris
- Division of Infectious Disease, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Brännström M, Belfort MA, Ayoubi JM. Uterus transplantation worldwide: clinical activities and outcomes. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2021; 26:616-626. [PMID: 34636769 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Women with absolute uterine factor infertility, because of uterine absence, or the presence of a nonfunctional uterus, were regarded as being untreatable until 2014 when the first birth following uterus transplantation (UTx) took place in Sweden. This proof-of-concept occurred in a woman with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKHs) with congenital uterine absence, who received a uterus from a 61-year-old live donor (LD). Since then, several births after UTx have occurred in Sweden and subsequently in other countries, including both LD and deceased donor (DD) transplants. A great majority of the recipients were women with MRKHs. The efficiency and safety of UTx can be determined only when a complete study cohort of transplanted women have reached the definitive endpoint of graft hysterectomy. The different outcomes of transplanted women include graft failure, as well as graft survival with failure to achieve livebirth, or livebirth(s). Published data from a completed trial are not yet available. The results that we have to rely on are reports of completed surgeries and interim outcomes that may be as early as a few months after surgery and up to several years after UTx. The purpose of this review is to give an update on all published clinical UTx data and major results, including live births up to mid 2021. RECENT FINDINGS The interim results of a number of UTx studies have been published. LD UTx procedures have been reported from four European countries (Sweden, the Czech Republic, Germany, Spain), four Asian nations (Saudi Arabia, India, China, Lebanon), as well as some from the USA. DD UTx procedures have been reported from Turkey, the Czech Republic, the USA and Brazil. To our knowledge, there also exist unpublished UTx cases from some of the countries mentioned above and from at least four other countries (Serbia, France, Mexico, Italy). We estimate that at least 80 UTx procedures have been performed, resulting in more than 40 births. The present study includes only data from published, peer-reviewed, research papers. The results of 62 UTx cases show an overall surgical success rate, as defined by a technically successful transplantation with a subsequent regular menstrual pattern, of 76%. The success rates for LD and DD UTx procedures were 78% and 64%, respectively. The rate of serious postsurgical complications requiring invasive or radiological intervention was 18% for LDs and 19% for recipients. The cumulative live birth rate in successful UTx procedures is estimated to be above 80%. Twenty-four births after UTx have been reported and the results show a high rate of preterm birth, with an associated high proportion of respiratory distress syndrome. SUMMARY UTx has proven to be a successful treatment for uterine factor infertility at several centers around the world. The modest success rate and the fairly high complication rate among LDs, indicate that further research and development under strict governance are needed before this option should be widely offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg
- Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch - Faculté de Medicine Paris Ouest (UVSQ), Suresnes, France
| | - Michael A Belfort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jean Marc Ayoubi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch - Faculté de Medicine Paris Ouest (UVSQ), Suresnes, France
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Escandón JM, Bustos VP, Santamaría E, Langstein HN, Ciudad P, Hernandez-Alejandro R, Moore RG, Leckenby JI, Manrique OJ. Evolution and Transformation of Uterine Transplantation: A Systematic Review of Surgical Techniques and Outcomes. J Reconstr Microsurg 2021; 38:429-440. [PMID: 34535036 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine transplantation (UTx) is acknowledged to be on the second (2A) of five steps of development in accordance with the staging system for the evaluation of surgical innovations. Accordingly, we aimed to systematically review the available evidence of the surgical techniques and outcomes of UTx in terms of graft survival. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed Medline, Cochrane-EBMR, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL through November 2020. RESULTS Forty studies, reporting 64 recipients and 64 donors, satisfied inclusion criteria. The surgical time and the estimated blood loss were 515 minutes and 679 mL for graft procurement via laparotomy, 210 minutes and 100 mL for laparoscopic-assisted graft harvest, and 660 minutes and 173 mL for robotic-assisted procedures, respectively. Urinary tract infections (n = 8) and injury to the urinary system (n = 6) were the most common donor complications. Using the donor's internal iliac system, two arterial anastomoses were performed in all cases. Venous outflow was accomplished through the uterine veins (UVs) in 13 cases, a combination of the UVs and the ovarian/uteroovarian veins (OVs/UOVs) in 36 cases, and solely through the OVs/UOVs in 13 cases. Ischemia time was 161 and 258 minutes when using living donors (LD) and deceased donors (DD), respectively. Forty-eight uteri were successfully transplanted or fulfilled the purpose of transplantation, 41 from LDs and 7 from DDs. Twenty-five and four live childbirths from LDs and DDs have been reported, respectively. CONCLUSION UTx is still experimental. Further series are required to recommend specific surgical techniques that best yield a successful transplant and reduce complications for donors and recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M Escandón
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
| | - Valeria P Bustos
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Eric Santamaría
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez, National Cancer Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Howard N Langstein
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
| | - Pedro Ciudad
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Roberto Hernandez-Alejandro
- Department of Surgery and Division of Abdominal Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
| | - Richard G Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
| | - Jonathan I Leckenby
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
| | - Oscar J Manrique
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
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Martin DE, Cronin AJ, Dalle Ave A, van Haren FMP, Locke JE, Miñambres E, Oniscu GC, Parent B. Addressing ethical confusion in deceased donation and transplantation research: the need for dedicated guidance. Transpl Int 2021; 34:2459-2468. [PMID: 34516693 DOI: 10.1111/tri.14108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Innovative research in deceased donation and transplantation often presents ethical challenges for researchers and those responsible for ethical governance of research. These challenges have been recognized as potential barriers to the conduct of research. We review the literature to identify and describe ethical considerations that may cause confusion or uncertainty in the context of research involving potential deceased donors or deceased donor transplantation. We normatively examine these considerations and discuss their implications for the ethical conduct of research. In addition to the complexities of research involving critically ill, dying or recently deceased individuals, uncertainty may arise regarding the ethical status of various individuals who may be involved in research aimed at improving availability and outcomes of organ transplantation. Consequently, routine ethical guidelines for clinical research may fail to provide clear guidance with regards to the design, conduct and governance of some deceased donation or transplantation studies. Ethical uncertainty may result in delays or barriers to research, or neglect of important ethical considerations. Specific ethical guidance is needed to support research in deceased donation and transplantation as the ethical considerations that arise in the design and conduct of such research may not be addressed in the existing guidelines for human research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonia J Cronin
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Anne Dalle Ave
- Ethics Unit, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Frank M P van Haren
- College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Intensive Care Unit, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jayme E Locke
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Eduardo Miñambres
- Transplant Coordination Unit and Service of Intensive Care, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla-IDIVAL, Santander, Spain.,School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Gabriel C Oniscu
- Edinburgh Transplant Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Clinical Surgery, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Brendan Parent
- Division of Medical Ethics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Chmel R, Pastor Z, Novackova M, Chubanovova N, Chmel R. Methods for neovagina creation in women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome for subsequent uterus transplantation. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2021; 165:360-366. [PMID: 34446938 DOI: 10.5507/bp.2021.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome is a rare female congenital anomaly that presents with an inability to have coital sexual intercourse and absolute uterine factor infertility. Both surgical and nonsurgical approaches have been described for the treatment of vaginal agenesis to allow satisfactory coitus. Transplantation of the uterus has the challenge of achieving pregnancy and delivery of her own genetic and biological children in a woman without a natural uterus. Women of reproductive age with a congenital form of absolute uterine factor infertility are considered appropriate recipients of a uterus in the experimental phase of uterus transplantation trials. A neovagina in the normal anatomic position covered by natural non-keratinized mucosa is one of the main assumptions for surgical and reproductive success in transplant recipients. More than 70 uterine transplants have been performed to date, and more than 25 childbirths have been achieved by several research centers in the recipients of a uterus with uterine agenesis. In women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome, skin-graft neovagina, Vecchietti's vaginoplasty, and self-dilation using Frank's and Ingram's methods are appropriate techniques to create a neovagina if transplantation of the uterus is intended in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Chmel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Zlatko Pastor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Novackova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Nikoleta Chubanovova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Chmel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
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Aljerian K. Uterine transplant: an ethical framework analysis from a Middle Eastern perspective. Curr Med Res Opin 2021; 37:1049-1060. [PMID: 33705236 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2021.1902296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Significant advances in infertility treatment have been achieved over the past several decades, but women with uterine dysfunction, anomaly, or agenesis still need support to carry a pregnancy to term. Recently, advancements in surgical, anesthetic and immunosuppressive therapy have brought the idea of successful uterine transplant closer to reality, but many challenges must be overcome before uterine transplant can become more common, including ethical challenges related to the study and the conduct of this procedure. METHODS This was an updated ethical analysis of uterine transplant from a Middle Eastern perspective, using an established ethical framework that has been adapted for the analysis of research in non-Western cultures and developing countries. RESULTS Using the ethical framework, this analysis explored research developments in uterine transplant to date, using the following categories: collaborative partnership, social value, scientific validity, a fair selection of study population, favorable risk-benefit ratio, independent review, informed consent, and respect for recruited participants. The analysis revealed a significant need for region- and religion-specific ethical guidelines for uterine transplant procedures. CONCLUSIONS The horizons of research need to expand by addressing and researching the ethical issues related to uterine transplant trials and clinical procedures. LIMITATIONS Limitations included the challenges related to applying ethical analyses to work in developing countries, and the fact that this analysis was based on the views and interpretations of a single researcher.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaldoon Aljerian
- Forensic and Legal Medicine Unit, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Jones BP, Saso S, Yazbek J, Thum MY, Quiroga I, Ghaem-Maghami S, Smith JR. Uterine Transplantation: Scientific Impact Paper No. 65 April 2021. BJOG 2021; 128:e51-e66. [PMID: 33913235 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
A uterine transplant, or womb transplant, provides a potential treatment for women who cannot become pregnant or carry a pregnancy because they do not have a womb, or have a womb that is unable to maintain a pregnancy. This is estimated to affect one in 500 women. Options for those who wish to start a family include adoption and surrogacy, but these are associated with legal, cultural, ethical and religious implications that may not be appropriate for some women and their families. A womb transplant is undertaken when the woman is ready to start a family, and is removed following the completion of their family. Womb transplants have been performed all over the world, with more than 70 procedures carried out so far. At least 23 babies have been born as a result, demonstrating that womb transplants can work. While the procedure offers a different option to adoption and surrogacy, it is associated with significant risks, including multiple major surgeries and the need to take medications that help to dampen the immune system to prevent rejection of the womb. To date there has been a 30% risk of a transplant being unsuccessful. Although the number of transplants to date is still relatively small, the number being performed globally is growing, providing an opportunity to learn from the experience gained so far. This paper looks at the issues that have been encountered, which may arise at each step of the process, and proposes a framework for the future. However, long term follow-up of cases will be essential to draw reliable conclusions about any overall benefits of this procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- B P Jones
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
| | - S Saso
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
| | - J Yazbek
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
| | - M-Y Thum
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
| | - I Quiroga
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
| | - S Ghaem-Maghami
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
| | - J R Smith
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 10-18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, UK
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Abstract
Uterus transplantation (UTx) offers women with absolute uterine factor infertility the option to gestate and birth their own biologically related child. The first birth following living donation UTx happened in 2014. The first birth following deceased donation happened in December 2017, with further successes since. Interest in deceased donation UTx is increasing. The authors established a database to track UTx clinical trials and outcomes. Utilising this database and existing literature, this article reviews the first reported cases of deceased donation UTx and outcomes, and drawing upon comparisons with living donor UTx, comments upon the future for this area of reproductive transplantation research. This is the first article to bring together the literature on deceased donation UTx procedures and outcomes.
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17
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Infectious complications of vascularized composite allograft transplantation. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2021; 25:377-382. [PMID: 32487889 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Vascularized composite allograft (VCA) transplants constitute multiple tissues transplanted together as one functional unit. These procedures are increasing in frequency and complexity, yet data about graft survival, quality of life, and infection risk remain limited. RECENT FINDINGS Informative guidance for this patient population is often inferred from the solid organ transplantation literature. Yet, it is important to understand that VCA transplantation additionally carries its own significant and distinctive risk factors for infection. SUMMARY In this review, we give an overview of previously described infectious complications of VCA transplantation in the literature, discuss risk factors for future infection in these patients, and discuss how to manage such obstacles.
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18
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Clinicopathologic Analysis of Uterine Allografts Including Proposed Scoring of Ischemia-reperfusion Injury and T Cell-mediated Rejection-Dallas UtErus Transplant Study: A Pilot Study. Transplantation 2021; 106:167-177. [PMID: 33481553 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterus transplantation (UTx) enables pregnancy in infertile women. This study describes the histopathological changes of ischemia reperfusion injury and mostly acute T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) in UTx and proposes modification toward a working formulation grading system with associated treatments. METHODS Protocol and indication biopsies from 11 living and 2 deceased donor UTx recipients were analyzed. Serving as a control were 49 age-matched nontransplanted uteri. All posttransplant histopathological specimens were evaluated in a blinded fashion by 3 pathologists. Response to treatment was assessed by follow-up biopsies. Serial serum donor-specific antibody (DSA) responses were also recorded. RESULTS Changes attributed to ischemia reperfusion resolved within 2 weeks of UTx in most of the patients. For TCMR grading, perivascular inflammation, focal capillary disruption, and interstitial hemorrhage were added to interface inflammation, intercellular edema, stromal inflammation, and epithelial apoptotic bodies. Of the 173 protocol biopsies, 98 were classified as negative for TCMR; 34, indeterminate-borderline; 35, mild; 3, moderate; and 3, severe, 1 of which occurred in a DSA-positive recipient and also showed microvascular injury. Corticosteroids successfully treated all moderate to severe TCMR episodes. Mild TCMR was treated by increasing existing baseline immunosuppression. Indeterminate-borderline episodes were not treated. Neither ischemia reperfusion injury nor TCMR with DSA adversely affected embryo transfer. CONCLUSION Relying on a modified histopathological grading system, we developed a treatment strategy resulting in resolution of TCMR and successful pregnancies.
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19
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Richards EG, Falcone T, Farrell RM. Reply. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 224:133-134. [PMID: 32979376 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elliott G Richards
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave. #A81, Cleveland, OH 44195.
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave. #A81, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - Ruth M Farrell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave. #A81, Cleveland, OH 44195
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20
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D'Amico G, Quintini C, Eghtesad B, Hashimoto K, Ricci S, Flyckt R, Del Prete L, Miller C, Falcone T, Tzakis A. Uterus Recovery from Deceased Donor: Simple Technique Securing Safety of Vital Organs and Uterus Graft. J Am Coll Surg 2020; 232:e1-e6. [PMID: 33217551 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2020.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe D'Amico
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
| | - Cristiano Quintini
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Bijan Eghtesad
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Koji Hashimoto
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Stephanie Ricci
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Rebecca Flyckt
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Luca Del Prete
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Charles Miller
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Andreas Tzakis
- Departments of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
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21
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Kristek J, Johannesson L, Novotny R, Kachlik D, Fronek J. Human uterine vasculature with respect to uterus transplantation: A comprehensive review. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:2199-2220. [PMID: 32840043 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the novelty of uterus transplantation, data on preferable inflow and outflow of the graft are limited. This paper reviews the technique, type of vessels and the outcome. A systematic search of the PubMed database was conducted. We extracted and analyzed data on the arteries and veins utilized, types of anastomosis, types of donors, complications and the outcome. Thirty eight sources reported 51 human uterine transplantations, 10 graft thromboses and 25 live births. Inflow was established with two uterine arteries (UA) with/without the anterior division of the internal iliac artery in 62% (n = 31) of cases, two UA arteries with a segment/patch of the internal iliac artery in 34% (n = 17) of cases or two UA with a conduit in 4% of cases (n = 2). Both cases with a conduit developed thrombosis (n = 2). Arterial thrombosis/ischemia developed in 8 of the 51 cases. In 50% of cases with arterial thrombosis, atherosclerosis was identified as a possible cause. Outflow was established by two internal iliac veins with patches/segments in 27.5% of cases (n = 14) followed by two utero-ovarian veins in 25.5% (n = 13). Venous thrombosis occurred in 3 of the 51 cases. Uterine arteries with/without anterior division of the internal iliac artery were the most frequent arteries used for inflow and produced the highest patency rate. The presence of atherosclerosis and complex arterial reconstruction was associated with a high rate of arterial thrombosis. None of the veins utilized in the procedures appeared to be superior. There are insufficient data to draw a definite conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Kristek
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Anatomy, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Liza Johannesson
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Robert Novotny
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David Kachlik
- Department of Anatomy, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Fronek
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Anatomy, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.,First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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22
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Flyckt R, Falcone T, Quintini C, Perni U, Eghtesad B, Richards EG, Farrell RM, Hashimoto K, Miller C, Ricci S, Ferrando CA, D’Amico G, Maikhor S, Priebe D, Chiesa-Vottero A, Heerema-McKenney A, Mawhorter S, Feldman MK, Tzakis A. First birth from a deceased donor uterus in the United States: from severe graft rejection to successful cesarean delivery. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 223:143-151. [PMID: 32151611 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Uterus transplantation is the only known potential treatment for absolute uterine factor infertility. It offers a unique setting for the investigation of immunologic adaptations of pregnancy in the context of the pharmacologic-induced tolerance of solid organ transplants, thus providing valuable insights into the early maternal-fetal interface. Until recently, all live births resulting from uterus transplantation involved living donors, with only 1 prior birth from a deceased donor. The Cleveland Clinic clinical trial of uterus transplantation opened in 2015. In 2017, a 35 year old woman with congenital absence of the uterus was matched to a 24 year old parous deceased brain-dead donor. Transplantation of the uterus was performed with vaginal anastomosis and vascular anastomoses bilaterally from internal iliac vessels of the donor to the external iliac vessels of the recipient. Induction and maintenance immunosuppression were achieved and subsequently modified in anticipation of pregnancy 6 months after transplant. Prior to planned embryo transfer, ectocervical biopsy revealed ulceration and a significant diffuse, plasma cell-rich mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate, with histology interpreted as grade 3 rejection suspicious for an antibody-mediated component. Aggressive immunosuppressive regimen targeting both cellular and humoral rejection was initiated. After 3 months of treatment, there was no histologic evidence of rejection, and after 3 months from complete clearance of rejection, an uneventful embryo transfer was performed and a pregnancy was established. At 21 weeks, central placenta previa with accreta was diagnosed. A healthy neonate was delivered by cesarean hysterectomy at 34 weeks' gestation. In summary, this paper highlights the first live birth in North America resulting from a deceased donor uterus transplant. This achievement underscores the capacity of the transplanted uterus to recover from a severe, prolonged rejection and yet produce a viable neonate. This is the first delivery from our ongoing clinical trial in uterus transplantation, including the first reported incidence of severe mixed cellular/humoral rejection as well as the first reported placenta accreta.
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23
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Rehmer JM, Ferrando CA, Flyckt R, Falcone T. Techniques for successful vaginal anastomosis in the uterine transplantation patient. Fertil Steril 2020; 115:802-803. [PMID: 32682518 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To demonstrate techniques for successful donor-to-recipient vaginal anastomosis in uterine transplantation including illustration of a tension-free technique. DESIGN This video uses live-action footage from surgery, detailed animations, and illustrations to review the step-by-step technique we use for vaginal anastomosis in uterine transplantation. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained for this experimental surgery. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Patients undergoing uterine transplantation. INTERVENTION(S) Preparation of recipient vagina with illustration of challenges and risk secondary to dense adhesions between bladder and neo-vagina. Use of surgical techniques. Key steps include appropriate preparation of both donor and recipient vaginal tissues and a tension-free closure with horizontal mattress stitches. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Intraoperative techniques in the clinical research trial of uterine transplantation. RESULTS Successful vaginal anastomosis in the uterine transplantation patient. CONCLUSION(S) This video provides a step-by-step guide to vaginal anastomosis in uterine transplantation patients. Our team has applied techniques from vaginal reconstructive surgery in an attempt to reduce the occurrence of postoperative vaginal strictures, with attention to planned donor and recipient anastomosis site tissue preparation and closure of the anastomosis using a tension-free suturing technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna M Rehmer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
| | - Cecile A Ferrando
- Center for Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Rebecca Flyckt
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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24
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Chmel R, Pastor Z, Matecha J, Janousek L, Novackova M, Fronek J. Uterine transplantation in an era of successful childbirths from living and deceased donor uteri: Current challenges. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2020; 164:115-120. [DOI: 10.5507/bp.2019.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Abstract
Uterine factor infertility (UFI) may affect up to 1 in 500 reproductive age women. The uterus is an essential component of achieving pregnancy and carrying a pregnancy to term successfully. There are many etiologies of UFI which may be categorized into either congenital or acquired causes. In this review, we discuss the different causes of UFI as well as the treatment options, which now includes uterine transplant.
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26
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Brännström M. Uterus transplantation: transition from experimental to clinical procedure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 71:460-466. [PMID: 32064828 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.19.04482-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Uterus transplantation is a novel treatment to treat uterine factor infertility. This type of infertility is due to absence of an anatomical or functional uterus. This review covers important research findings in the field, and this research formed the base for introduction of uterus transplantation as an experimental clinical procedure. The basic animal-research investigated central facets such as surgery, immunosuppression, ischemia-reperfusion injury, rejection, and fertility. The first clinical uterus transplantation trial was started in 2013 and this was a live donor trial. The first live birth was reported in 2014 and this has been followed by a number of births from the initial trial in Sweden and in several other parts of the world. The uterus transplantations procedures and the live births that have been scientifically reported will be discussed in this review. Lastly, some aspects for an efficient transition from an experimental phase into a clinical phase of uterus transplantation will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden - .,Stockholm IVF-EUGIN Clinic, Stockholm, Sweden -
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27
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Provider Knowledge and Support of Uterus Transplantation: Surveying Multidisciplinary Team Members. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes 2020; 4:150-158. [PMID: 32280925 PMCID: PMC7140015 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine relevant provider opinions on uterus transplantation (UTx). Patients and Methods We invited 1933 providers in obstetrics and gynecology, transplant surgery, transplant medicine, internal medicine, and family medicine at a large, integrated health care system to complete an online survey containing a series of questions on their attitudes about the ethics and clinical utility of UTx. The survey was open from June 4, 2018, through July 2, 2018. We received 449 responses overall (23.2% response rate). Results Of 433 physicians who responded, 195 (45.0%) believe that UTx is ethically justified, and just over a third (160 of 446 [35.9%]) would introduce the possibility of UTx to a patient with absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI). Respondents indicated the risks to donor, recipient, and child carried the most weight in their ethical evaluation and were most supportive of UTx in a patient with congenital uterine absence (334 of 743 [45.0%]; participants were allowed to choose more than one answer). A majority stated that a living or cadaveric donor would be an acceptable donor source (238 of 395 [60.3%]). Conclusion Provider support for UTx is qualified by safety concerns and its expansion to patient populations other than women with AUFI. This survey suggests that most providers limit their support of UTx to patients with the most demonstrated clinical need, childless women with AUFI.
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29
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Liu Y, Zhang Y, Ding Y, Chen G, Zhang X, Wang Y, Hua K. Clinical applications of uterus transplantation in China: Issues to take into consideration. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:357-368. [PMID: 31997549 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Department of GynecologyThe Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of GynecologyThe Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Yan Ding
- Department of GynecologyThe Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Gaowen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyZhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Xuyin Zhang
- Department of GynecologyThe Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Yifeng Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyZhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Keqin Hua
- Department of GynecologyThe Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University Shanghai China
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30
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Brännström M, Enskog A, Kvarnström N, Ayoubi JM, Dahm-Kähler P. Global results of human uterus transplantation and strategies for pre-transplantation screening of donors. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:3-10. [PMID: 31277765 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Absolute uterine factor infertility, due to absence or non-function of the uterus, is one of the few major subgroups of infertility that has remained without any treatment. Uterus transplantation has now been proposed as treatment for this type of infertility. The first attempt of human uterus transplantation was in 2000. This was a live donor case, but due to suboptimal surgical solutions it resulted in a necrotic uterus being removed after 99 days. This first human case, although a failure, inspired several research groups around the globe to initiate animal-based studies to investigate uterus transplantation in relation to surgery, immunosuppression, rejection and pregnancy outcome. The research was carried out in several animal species and advanced the field substantially. In 2011, the second uterus transplantation attempt was performed, and this involved a deceased donor procedure. Although the case was surgically successful, with resumed menstruations, clinical pregnancy with live birth could not be achieved. The first clinical trial of uterus transplantation was initiated in Sweden in 2013 and involved nine live donor procedures. The world's first live birth was reported from that trial in September 2014 and this was followed by two more births within that trial in November 2014. Births after uterus transplantation has since been reported from Sweden and other centers in Europe, North America, Latin America, and Asia. Thirty human uterus transplantation procedures have been reported in the scientific literature so far but by our personal knowledge the double number of procedures have been performed. The published cases will be reviewed in detail, and we will also describe the pregnancies of the live births that have been published. A small number of graft failures have occurred. These may in part be linked to suboptimal selection of donors, specifically concerning the quality of the uterine arteries. Consequently, we will also address the issue of strategies for pre-surgical screening of donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Anders Enskog
- Department of Anesthesiology & Intensive Care, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Niclas Kvarnström
- Department of Transplantation, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Jean Marc Ayoubi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hopital Foch - Faculté de Medicine Paris Ouest (UVSQ), Suresnes, France
| | - Pernilla Dahm-Kähler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
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31
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Feldman MK, Hunter SA, Perni UC, Liu P, Quintini C, Tzakis AG, Flyckt R. New Frontier: Role of the Radiologist in Uterine Transplantation. Radiographics 2019; 40:291-302. [PMID: 31756124 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2020190123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Uterine transplantation (UT) is a novel treatment for absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI) that is currently being performed under experimental protocols in multiple medical centers worldwide. At the time of this publication, there have been at least 10 live births by women with a transplanted uterus. As successful outcomes from this innovative procedure increase, it is likely that more centers will perform UT. Imaging is performed in multiple steps of the UT process, including preoperative imaging of potential donors and recipients, posttransplant surveillance, and monitoring of pregnancy. Fetal imaging is performed by maternal-fetal medicine professionals, but most imaging examinations in UT are performed by radiologists. Given the significant role of imaging in this groundbreaking surgery, radiologists must be familiar with the causes of AUFI and the role of imaging in establishing this diagnosis. Radiologists working in medical centers where UT is performed should understand the role of imaging in preoperative planning and postoperative surveillance. While data regarding complications of UT are preliminary at best, radiologists must be aware of the risk of vascular compromise and graft failure and their imaging features. The authors provide a brief history of UT and define the radiologist's role in pre- and postoperative imaging assessments.©RSNA, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myra K Feldman
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
| | - Sara A Hunter
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
| | - Uma C Perni
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
| | - Peter Liu
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
| | - Cristiano Quintini
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
| | - Andreas G Tzakis
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
| | - Rebecca Flyckt
- From the Imaging Institute (M.K.F., S.A.H., P.L.), Women's Health Institute (U.C.P., R.F.), and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute (C.Q.), Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code A21, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Fla (A.G.T.)
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Mahmood S, Johannesson L, Testa G, de Prisco G. DUETS (Dallas UtErus Transplant Study): The role of imaging in uterus transplantation. SAGE Open Med 2019; 7:2050312119875607. [PMID: 31523428 PMCID: PMC6734610 DOI: 10.1177/2050312119875607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Uterus transplantation is rapidly becoming a viable clinical option for women with uterine-factor infertility and a desire for parenthood. Radiological imaging plays a central role in selecting the optimal living donors for uterus transplantation and serves to exclude any pathology and evaluate the uterine vasculature. The latter is the most important variable in the ultimate technical success of the uterus transplant. In this first report of imaging in the setting of uterus transplantation, we report our experience with living-donor selection, and the evolution of the imaging techniques that ultimately allowed a significant improvement in donor selection and transplant outcome. We also suggest a framework for preoperative imaging in uterus transplantation. Methods: Between 2016 and 2018, 27 potential living donors were evaluated by imaging prior to uterine donation for uterus transplantation. Predonation imaging included a screening chest radiograph, dual-phase computed tomography (CT) angiograms of the abdomen and pelvis in the arterial and venous phases and pelvic sonography with Doppler. Seventeen potential donors additionally underwent multiphasic pelvic MR angiograms. The imaging performed was meant to display features of the vascular anatomy relevant for uterus transplantation. Results: Out of the 27 potential live donors who were evaluated by imaging, 9 eventually donated their uterus for transplantation. The most frequent reason for exclusion was suboptimal quality of the vessels (33%), including small uterine arteries, the presence of atherosclerosis or small size/poor quality of the uterine or utero-ovarian veins, or both. The next most common reason was voluntary patient withdrawal or failure to complete the evaluation process (28%). Three potential donors (16.6%) were rejected for uterine factors, fibroids, and/or adenomyosis. Other reasons for donor rejection included ABO incompatibility and unfavorable psychological evaluation. Conclusion: Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in selecting appropriate potential donors, screening prospective recipients, planning the graft procedure, and following up on any graft or nongraft-related complications in both the donor and recipient after the transplantation procedure is performed. Contrast-enhanced CT and MR angiographies have complementary roles, especially when evaluating the donor for adequacy of the arterial and venous supply to the uterine graft and the experience gained from our series indicates that the inclusion of both modalities contributed directly to successful uterus transplant graft survival by selecting patients with favorable arterial and venous vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soran Mahmood
- Department of Radiology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, USA
| | - Liza Johannesson
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Liza Johannesson, Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75246, USA.
| | - Giuliano Testa
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Gregory de Prisco
- Department of Radiology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Abstract
Absolute uterine factor infertility is the final hurdle for assisted reproductive treatments. Uterus transplant trials are happening worldwide; to advance the debate around uterine transplantation (UTx), this article considers selection criteria for clinical trials from a UK perspective and makes recommendations for future selection criteria for UTx treatment. Recommendations advanced include the use of donor eggs, access for single women and women in same-sex relationships, prohibiting participation of women who are already mothers, and a preference for deceased donors and bioengineered uteri. With UTx treatment on the horizon, it is important to proactively consider future selection criteria. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT: Review of UK selection criteria for clinical trials for uterus transplantation; recommendations for the future.
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Chmel R, Pastor Z, Novackova M, Matecha J, Cekal M, Fronek J. Clinical pregnancy after deceased donor uterus transplantation: Lessons learned and future perspectives. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2019; 45:1458-1465. [DOI: 10.1111/jog.13992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roman Chmel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
- Transplantation Surgery DepartmentInstitute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine Prague Czech Republic
| | - Zlatko Pastor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Marta Novackova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Jan Matecha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
- Faculty of Medicine in PlzeňCharles University Czech Republic
| | - Milos Cekal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Fronek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
- Transplantation Surgery DepartmentInstitute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine Prague Czech Republic
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Flyckt R, Farrell RM, Falcone T. Advancing the Science of Uterine Transplantation: Minimizing Living Donor Risk on a Path to Surgical Innovation. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2019; 26:577-579. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2019.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Taran FA, Schöller D, Rall K, Nadalin S, Königsrainer A, Henes M, Bösmüller H, Fend F, Nikolaou K, Notohamiprodjo M, Grasshoff C, Heim E, Zipfel S, Schäffeler N, Bakchoul T, Heyne N, Guthoff M, Krämer B, Reisenauer C, Hoopmann M, Kagan KO, Brännström M, Wallwiener D, Brucker SY. Screening and evaluation of potential recipients and donors for living donor uterus transplantation: results from a single-center observational study. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:186-193. [PMID: 30611405 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report our experience with the screening and selection of potential recipients and living donors of our uterus transplantation (UTx) program. DESIGN Part of an observational program. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Patients with absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI). INTERVENTION(S) Screening by e-mail and telephone, selection during surgical consultation, and preoperative investigations according to a multistep procedure for living donation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Age, cause of AUFI, exclusion reasons, and preoperative workup. RESULT(S) A total of 212 potential recipients expressed interest in participation. Among the 46 potential recipients and 49 directed donors were 4 potential recipients, each with 2 directed donors. Mean (range) age of potential recipients was 29.6 (19-41) years. Of the potential recipients, 39 (84.8%) had congenital AUFI and 7 (17.3%) had acquired AUFI. Ultimately, 15 potential recipients with 16 directed donors were selected for participation, with 1 potential recipient having 2 directed donors. Mean age of included potential recipients was 28.9 (22-35) years, and mean donor age was 51.3 (37-62) years. Fourteen potential recipients (93.3%) had congenital AUFI, and one potential recipient (6.7%) had undergone hysterectomy for obstetric complications. CONCLUSION(S) The number of potential candidates for UTx is not inconsiderable, with congenital AUFI being the leading cause of AUFI in our cohort. However, our findings highlight that large numbers of AUFI patients need to be screened, considering our exclusion rates were >50%, owing to ABO incompatibility, unavailability of a directed donor, and self-withdrawal. Moreover, meticulous preoperative screening, including in-depth psychological assessment, is mandatory to maximize living donor safety and UTx success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin-Andrei Taran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Dorit Schöller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Rall
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Silvio Nadalin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alfred Königsrainer
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Henes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hans Bösmüller
- Department of Pathology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Falko Fend
- Department of Pathology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Konstantin Nikolaou
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mike Notohamiprodjo
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Grasshoff
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Eckhard Heim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephan Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Norbert Schäffeler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tamam Bakchoul
- Center for Transfusion Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nils Heyne
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Angiology, Nephrology, and Clinical Chemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martina Guthoff
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Angiology, Nephrology, and Clinical Chemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernhard Krämer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christl Reisenauer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Markus Hoopmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Karl-Oliver Kagan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Diethelm Wallwiener
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sara Y Brucker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Richards EG, Agatisa PK, Davis AC, Flyckt R, Mabel H, Falcone T, Tzakis A, Farrell RM. Framing the diagnosis and treatment of absolute uterine factor infertility: Insights from in-depth interviews with uterus transplant trial participants. AJOB Empir Bioeth 2019; 10:23-35. [PMID: 30855220 DOI: 10.1080/23294515.2019.1572672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite procedural innovations and increasing numbers of uterus transplant attempts worldwide, the perspectives of uterus transplant (UTx) trial participants are lacking. METHODS We conducted a mixed-methods study with women with absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI). Participants included women who had previously contacted the Cleveland Clinic regarding the Uterine Transplant Trial and met the initial eligibility criteria for participation. In-depth interviews were conducted in conjunction with FertiQoL, a validated and widely used tool to measure the impact of infertility on the quality of life of infertility patients. RESULTS All (n = 19) rated their overall health as good; some experienced grief and social isolation. AUFI is a life-framing experience that influences acceptance by family, partners, peers, and one's self. UTx is a means to gain control of reproductive autonomy. UTx allows family-building and the ability to play an active role in prenatal health and well-being. Establishing and maintaining a supportive relationship is a key issue of AUFI and when considering UTx. Risks of UTx are perceived relative to risks to self/child/family posed by adoption/surrogacy. Participants had no overall preference regarding living or deceased donor. CONCLUSIONS The ways in which women with AUFI conceptualize this condition in their lives and choices around UTx and participating in a study of the procedure are multifaceted and textured. These perspectives are critical to understanding its ethical, legal, and social implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott G Richards
- a Department of Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Institute , Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
| | - Patricia K Agatisa
- a Department of Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Institute , Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
| | - Anne C Davis
- a Department of Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Institute , Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
| | - Rebecca Flyckt
- a Department of Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Institute , Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
| | - Hilary Mabel
- b Center for Bioethics Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- a Department of Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Institute , Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
| | - Andreas Tzakis
- c Transplantation Center , Cleveland Clinic Florida , Weston , Florida
| | - Ruth M Farrell
- a Department of Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Institute , Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio.,b Center for Bioethics Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , Ohio
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Chmel R, Novackova M, Janousek L, Matecha J, Pastor Z, Maluskova J, Cekal M, Kristek J, Olausson M, Fronek J. Revaluation and lessons learned from the first 9 cases of a Czech uterus transplantation trial: Four deceased donor and 5 living donor uterus transplantations. Am J Transplant 2019; 19:855-864. [PMID: 30151893 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Although uterus transplantation is still in the experimental stage, it has promising potential as a treatment for women with absolute uterine factor infertility based on the childbirths from living donor trials conducted in Sweden and the United States. We report the main characteristics and perioperative and postoperative courses of both recipients and donors following 4 deceased donor and 5 living donor uterus transplantations. Three main priorities differentiate this study from the previously reported uterus transplantations. First, clinical experience with the largest worldwide group of deceased donor uterine transplants is described. Second, in the majority of living donor uterine recipients, only 2 ovarian veins were used for venous blood outflow. All of these recipient procedures were surgically successful, and follow-up posttransplant ultrasound examinations revealed normal uterine blood supply and outflow. Third, in only one living and one deceased donor recipient, the transplanted uterus relied on only 2 uterine veins for venous outflow with a 50% surgical success rate. In all other recipients, 2 uterine and 2 ovarian veins were utilized. Although a successful pregnancy has not yet been achieved, the presented surgical and functional results of our trial are promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Chmel
- Transplantation Surgery Department, Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Novackova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Janousek
- Transplantation Surgery Department, Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Matecha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zlatko Pastor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Maluskova
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Milos Cekal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Kristek
- Transplantation Surgery Department, Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Olausson
- Transplantation Surgery Department, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jiri Fronek
- Transplantation Surgery Department, Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
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Facial Transplantation: Highlighting the Importance of Clinical Vigilance in Donor Selection. Plast Reconstr Surg 2019; 142:611e-612e. [PMID: 30044325 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000004758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Uterus transplantation: organ procurement in a deceased donor model. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:183. [PMID: 29980257 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To demonstrate our technique of uterine procurement from a deceased donor. DESIGN This video uses live action footage from surgery and detailed illustrations to review the steps and techniques involved in deceased donor procurement surgery. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) A deceased multiorgan donor. INTERVENTION(S) Trial organ procurement of a viable uterus from a deceased donor. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Procurement time and associated features of suitability of dissected specimen. RESULT(S) This video article describes the advantages of a deceased donor model over a live donor model, including eliminating the risk of surgical complications to a living donor, avoidance of ethical issues inherent in live donation, easier access to generous vascular pedicles for anastomosis, and faster procurement time. This video also outlines the key steps to a successful uterine procurement using illustrations and live action footage from a trial organ procurement. CONCLUSION(S) Uterine transplantation is an emerging surgical treatment for patients with absolute uterine factor infertility. Continued practice is essential in preparing for a deceased donor uterine procurement. The process continues to be refined and adapted as new information becomes available toward the goal of safe, efficient, ethical, and effective surgical treatment of absolute uterine factor infertility.
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Dion L, Tardieu A, Garbin O, Ayoubi JM, Agostini A, Collinet P, Yves A, Pascal P, Tristan G, Lavoué V. Should brain-dead or living donors be used for uterus transplantation? A statement by the CNGOF French Uterus Transplantation Committee (CETUF). J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2019; 48:9-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Järvholm S, Warren AM, Jalmbrant M, Kvarnström N, Testa G, Johannesson L. Preoperative psychological evaluation of uterus transplant recipients, partners, and living donors: Suggested framework. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:2641-2646. [PMID: 30058104 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Uterus transplant has become a real option for women with uterine-factor infertility to become pregnant and give birth. The screening before uterus transplant consists of a multidisciplinary evaluation and includes the potential recipient, living donor, and, to some extent, the recipient's partner and future co-parent. The psychological evaluation has evolved from broad-based screening in the first uterus transplant trial, where the aim was to find suitable candidates for a novel experimental procedure with an unknown outcome, to a more directed screening with specific psychological domains for a complex infertility treatment with promising results. This report outlines a consensus by investigators with pioneering experience in the field of the key factors and suggests a framework for psychological evaluation of recipients and their partners as well as for live uterus donors before uterus transplant. We identify the main areas of particular value to the recipient screening (general psychological health, factors associated with infertility, and medication adherence), the partner (general psychological health and factors associated with infertility), and the living donor (psychological health and motivation to donate, especially in the case of the nondirected donor).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina Järvholm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ann Marie Warren
- Division of Trauma, Acute Care, and Critical Care Surgery, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Maria Jalmbrant
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.,Middlesex University, London, UK
| | - Niclas Kvarnström
- Department of Transplantation, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Giuliano Testa
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Liza Johannesson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Chmel R, Novackova M, Pastor Z, Fronek J. The Interest of Women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome and Laparoscopic Vecchietti Neovagina in Uterus Transplantation. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2018; 31:480-484. [PMID: 29751094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to assess a group of women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome with surgically created neovaginas in the interest of uterus transplantation (UTx) and to recruit the first group of applicants for a UTx trial. DESIGN AND SETTING This was an original prospective study using semistructured interviews. PARTICIPANTS A study group of 50 women with MRKH syndrome with Vecchietti neovaginas was recruited via letter of invitation. INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Interest of MRKH women in obtaining experimental UTx for the treatment of absolute uterine factor infertility. RESULTS A total of 50 women responded via e-mail and 31 (62% [31 of 50] of the study group) expressed serious interest in UTx after complete information about its risks and benefits was provided during the first semistructured interview. They subsequently agreed to participate in additional interviews and further examinations. Because of various reasons, only 9 women were prepared to enter our UTx trial (18% [9 of 50] of the study group). Three recipients/donors were accepted into the living donor arm and 6 into the deceased brain donor arm of the trial. CONCLUSION Nearly two-thirds of our MRKH syndrome study group women with surgically created neovaginas were interested in UTx and motivated to undergo this method of absolute uterine factor infertility treatment. Therefore, this group of women might be approached to participate in ongoing and future UTx trials. Future studies of women with MRKH syndrome might confirm or disprove the results of our survey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Chmel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Marta Novackova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zlatko Pastor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Fronek
- Transplant Surgery Department, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
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Dion L, Tardieu A, Piver P, Aubard Y, Ayoubi JM, Garbin O, Agostini A, Collinet P, Gauthier T, Lavoué V. Uterus transplantation: Where do we stand in 2018? J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2018; 48:11-13. [PMID: 30267772 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2018.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L Dion
- Service de Gynécologie, CHU de Rennes, Hôpital Sud, 16 bd de Bulgarie, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - A Tardieu
- Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique, CHU Limoges, av Dominique Larrey, 87000 Limoges, France; INSERM, UMR-1248, CHU Limoges, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - P Piver
- Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique, CHU Limoges, av Dominique Larrey, 87000 Limoges, France; INSERM, UMR-1248, CHU Limoges, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Y Aubard
- Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique, CHU Limoges, av Dominique Larrey, 87000 Limoges, France; INSERM, UMR-1248, CHU Limoges, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - J M Ayoubi
- Département de Gynécologie, Hôpital Foch, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | - O Garbin
- Département de Gynécologie, Pôle de Gynécologie Obstétrique des Hôpitaux Universitaire de Strasbourg, Site du CMCO, 67091 Strasbourg, France
| | - A Agostini
- Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Gynécologie CHU de Marseille, Hôpital de la Conception, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - P Collinet
- Clinique Gynécologique, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU Lille, 59037 Lille cedex, France
| | - T Gauthier
- Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique, CHU Limoges, av Dominique Larrey, 87000 Limoges, France; INSERM, UMR-1248, CHU Limoges, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - V Lavoué
- Service de Gynécologie, CHU de Rennes, Hôpital Sud, 16 bd de Bulgarie, 35000 Rennes, France.
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The Call for a Closer Examination of the Ethical Issues Associated with Uterine Transplantation. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2018; 25:933-935. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2018.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Allyse M, Amer H, Coutifaris C, Falcone T, Famuyide A, Flyckt R, Gargiulo A, Heimbach J, Johannesson L, Jowsey-Gregoire S, Khan Z, Langstraat C, Levin S, McDiarmid S, Miller C, Mulligan D, O'Neill K, Penzias A, Pfeifer S, Porrett P, Quintini C, Reindollar R, Rosen C, Silasi DA, Stewart E, Testa G, Tzakis A, Tullius SG, Penzias A, Bendikson K, Falcone T, Gitlin S, Gracia C, Hansen K, Jindal S, Kalra S, Mersereau J, Odem R, Rebar R, Reindollar R, Rosen M, Sandlow J, Schlegel P, Stovall D. American Society for Reproductive Medicine position statement on uterus transplantation: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2018; 110:605-610. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Favre-Inhofer A, Rafii A, Carbonnel M, Revaux A, Ayoubi JM. Uterine transplantation: Review in human research. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2018; 47:213-221. [PMID: 29574054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Uterine transplantation is the solution to treat absolute uterine fertility. In this review, we present the historical, medical, technical, psychological and ethical perspectives in human uterine transplantation research. We reviewed the PubMed database following PRISMA guidelines and added data presented by several research teams during the first international congress on uterine transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Favre-Inhofer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - A Rafii
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - M Carbonnel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - A Revaux
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - J M Ayoubi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France.
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