What is the protocol proposed for the hand transplant program at UPMC and how is it different from current regimens?
Surgeons and researchers here are proposing the use of the Pittsburgh Protocol for immunosuppression after hand transplant. It is composed of two elements: treating the patient with antibodies on the day of transplant, followed by a donor bone marrow infusion several days later. When used in solid organ transplants at UPMC, this protocol allows patients to be treated with low doses of a single maintenance drug.
