{"id":"40059f02-c9df-4cee-8efd-e218daca23fb","slug":"advancing-the-technology-for-head-transplants-from-immunology-to-peripheral-nerve-fusion","title":"Advancing the technology for head transplants: From immunology to peripheral nerve fusion","authors":["Sergio Canavero","Xiaoping Ren"],"abstract":"Background: Head transplants, referred to as HEAVEN, face significant challenges related to immunosuppression and peripheral nerve reconnection. Immunosuppression is crucial to prevent rejection of the donor body by the recipient's head, particularly for tissues not protected by the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, effective reconnection of peripheral nerves is essential for functional recovery post-transplant. Summary: This editorial discusses advancements in immunosuppression strategies, including the potential for inducing allograft tolerance through chimerism and novel apoptotic cell-based therapies. It also highlights the importance of peripheral nerve fusion techniques, particularly the use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and historical methods developed by Luis De Medinaceli, which aim to minimize secondary damage during nerve repair. These approaches could significantly enhance the success of head transplantation procedures. Conclusion: The integration of advanced immunosuppression protocols and refined peripheral nerve fusion techniques presents promising avenues for improving outcomes in head transplant surgeries. Continued research and experimentation are necessary to validate these strategies and ensure their efficacy in clinical settings. Keywords: head transplant, immunosuppression, peripheral nerve fusion, allograft tolerance, chimerism, apoptotic cell therapy, PEG fusion, De Medinaceli","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/placeholders/specialty/spine.png","publishDate":"2019-12-06T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_495_2019","categories":["Spine","Editorial"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/api/articles/40059f02-c9df-4cee-8efd-e218daca23fb/pdf"}