Oral health and rehabilitation in face transplant recipients – a systematic review
2025

Oral Health in Face Transplant Recipients

Sample size: 48 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Knoedler Leonard, Kauke-Navarro Martin, Knoedler Samuel, Niederegger Tobias, Hofmann Elena, Heiland Max, Koerdt Steffen, Nahles Susanne, Baecher Helena

Primary Institution: Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin

Hypothesis

What is the current state of oral health and rehabilitation in face transplant recipients?

Conclusion

Routine oral health assessments are essential for face transplant patients to prevent complications and improve clinical outcomes.

Supporting Evidence

  • 19 studies were included in the review, all of which were case reports or case series.
  • Malocclusion was reported in 48% of cases.
  • Revision surgeries occurred in 36% of cases.
  • 32% of cases had dental implants placed post-transplant.

Takeaway

Face transplant patients need regular check-ups for their teeth and gums to stay healthy and avoid problems after surgery.

Methodology

This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and included a comprehensive search of multiple databases for studies on oral health in face transplant patients.

Potential Biases

The reliance on case reports may affect the reliability of conclusions regarding oral health conditions in face transplant patients.

Limitations

The review is based on case reports and series, which may introduce bias and limit the generalizability of the findings.

Participant Demographics

80% male recipients, ages ranging from 19 to 64 years.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1007/s00784-024-06078-3

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