Establishing a Center for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: The Experience of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital

Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) has demonstrated promising results and potential, expanding possibilities for defects not amenable to reconstruction by means of autologous tissue transplantation. Success in VCA relies on multidisciplinary efforts derived from different specialties such as immunology, surgery, rehabilitation, psychology, etc. Setting up a platform to integrate these professions is thus critical for successful and innovative clinical practice and in-depth basic research. In this chapter, the authors' experience in the establishment and development of a modern VCA center at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, and in pioneering a successful clinical VCA - the first in Taiwan - is presented. The short- and long-term goals of the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital VCA Center, along with potential challenges and possible solutions, are also discussed. This chapter indeed provides invaluable lessons for those who are interested in pursuing and contributing to allotransplantation.