Could 3D bioprinted tissues offer future hope for microtia treatment?. (August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thomas, Daniel J.
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery. Volume 32(2016)
• Page Start: 43
• Page End: 44
• Publication Date: 2016-08
• Subjects: 3D biomanufacturing -- 3D printing tissues -- 3D tissue engineering; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2016.06.036
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-9191

Abstract

Abstract: Microtia is a congenital deformity where the pinna is underdeveloped. Contraindications to rib surgery for microtia reconstruction include high-risk surgical status and chest-wall deformities [1–2]. However does stem-cell-based 3D Bioprinting offer revolutionary therapeutic options for patients with such tissue abnormalities. As a technology, 3D-bioprinting is being developed to generate homogeneous tissues by depositing a low viscosity printable cellular-active gel which matures into a tissue [3]. Currently on-going research is developing the process towards producing cartilage tissues for use in reconstructive surgery. This process focuses on using the natural self-organising properties of cells in order to produce a functional tissue which has measurable: mechanical, metabolic and functional properties.