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.