New Mouse Model for Studying Laryngeal Transplantation

Objectives Laryngeal transplantation research has been studied in various animal models. For in-depth, immunology-based transplantation research, however, a thoroughly studied animal model must exist. The purpose of this study was to develop a reliable surgical technique in mice to serve as a model for further study of laryngeal transplantation. Methods Heterotopic laryngeal transplantation was attempted in 15 immunocompetent mice by use of modifications of previously described techniques established in rats. Results Various microvascular techniques were used that led to 8 successful transplants (of 15) with patent vascularity at the time of sacrifice. The first 7 attempts at transplantation were unsuccessful because of technical difficulties related to vessel size, soft tissue traumatic injury, and venous congestion. Subsequently, 8 transplantation procedures were successfully performed after modifications of the surgical technique. Conclusions This pilot study describes the reproducible surgical techniques performed in using mice for studying laryngeal transplantation. Mice are cost-effective and immunologically well studied, and are thus ideal for further laryngeal transplantation research.