{"id":"1a40d6c5-3eb6-4992-8887-47cbd5b395fd","slug":"human-head-transplantation-where-do-we-stand-and-a-call-to-arms","title":"Human head transplantation. Where do we stand and a call to arms","authors":["Xiaoping Ren","Sergio Canavero"],"abstract":"Background: The HEAVEN head transplant initiative, which includes allogeneic head body reconstruction and the GEMINI spinal cord fusion protocol, has faced significant criticism from various medical and ethical bodies since its announcement in 2013. This initiative highlights the challenges of translating biomedical research into practical applications that can improve health outcomes, as many advances in the field have not led to significant improvements in patient care. Summary: The editorial discusses the historical context of medical innovations that were initially ridiculed but later became accepted practices. It emphasizes the failures of current medical practices, particularly in chronic conditions, and critiques the peer review system that may hinder groundbreaking research. The authors call for collaboration among doctors, patients, and funding bodies to support the HEAVEN project and to foster scientific innovation. Conclusion: The authors urge the medical community and potential funding bodies to recognize the importance of the HEAVEN initiative and to support it in the face of skepticism. They emphasize the need for humility and action in addressing the failures of current medical practices, particularly in the context of life-saving procedures. Keywords: head transplantation, biomedical research, medical innovation, peer review, chronic conditions, GEMINI protocol, ethical considerations","thumbnailUrl":null,"publishDate":"2016-01-28T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.175074","categories":["Spine","Editorial"],"fullTextUrl":"http://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/6440/SNI-7-11.pdf"}