Orthotopic transplantation refers to the surgical procedure of transplanting an organ or tissue from one individual to another in a location that is anatomically and functionally appropriate for the recipient’s body. In other words, the transplanted organ or tissue is placed in the same location as it would normally be in the recipient’s body.

For example, in a heart transplant, the donor heart is placed in the same location as the recipient’s original heart, with the major blood vessels reconnected to the donor heart. Similarly, in a liver transplant, the donor liver is placed in the same location as the recipient’s original liver, with the major blood vessels and bile ducts reconnected to the donor liver.

Orthotopic transplantation is considered the gold standard for transplantation because it allows the transplanted organ or tissue to function in a way that is most similar to its natural state. However, it is a complex and technically challenging procedure that requires a skilled surgical team and specialized facilities.