A review article published recently in Tissue Engineering focuses on new methods for the expansion of patient-matched tissue samples and the improvement of cosmetic outcome, in nipple reconstruction.

Nipple and areola reconstruction is a common breast reconstruction technique, especially for breast cancer patients after mastectomy. However, tissue for grafting is a limiting factor, and there is no gold standard method.

In the article, Dietmar Hutmacher, PhD, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia, and colleagues review the evolution of nipple reconstruction techniques from more established local skin flap surgical methods to modern tissue engineering approaches.

The authors ultimately advocate and provide support for a combination of 3D printed biomaterial scaffolds with autologous cell seeding and in situ expansion, notes a media release from Mary Ann Liebert Inc/Genetic Engineering News.

“Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have the potential to dramatically improve current practices regarding nipple reconstruction,” says Tissue Engineering Co-Editor-in-Chief Antonios G. Mikos, PhD, in the release.

“This review paper provides an invaluable summary of current research and an informative roadmap for future research to improve these reconstruction techniques with innovative biofabrication technologies,” adds Mikos, Louis Calder Professor at Rice University, Houston.

[Source(s): Mary Ann Liebert Inc/Genetic Engineering News, EurekAlert]