Experimental model of orthotopic uterus transplantation in the laboratory rat

This study develops and standardizes an experimental model of uterus transplantation in the laboratory rat. Twelve orthotropic uterus transplantation were done. Animals were randomized in three groups. Postoperative survival was 100% and 75% at 72 hours. Recipients were euthanased at 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours and the grafts were harvested. Patency of the microsurgical anastomoses was 100% at 24 hours, 63% at 48 hours and 0% at 72 hours. The explanted uterine grafts were fixed in formalize and analyzed under light microscopy. The acute allograft rejection starts during the second day after transplantation. In additional dissection, anatomy of the pelvic region with regard to the topography of the uterus, tube and ovarian vessels was studied. This model of uterus transplantation in rats proposes a standardized tool for further research regarding cellular mechanisms of the acute allograft rejection and, for future, pregnancy of the transplanted uterus.