Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
fibrin mesh and host inflammation, consistent with the intermedi-
ate stages of wound healing, were observed in the control animals
that received only ESD. After ESD, the cell sheets were attached
directlytotheesophagealulcerbedsusingendoscopicforcepswith-
out suturing. The presence of an epithelial cell layer dramatically
enhances post-ESD wound healing and reduces host inflammatory
responses.
44.8 Sealing of Lung air Leaks
Air leaks caused by visceral pleural injury during lung resection are
an unavoidable complication and can cause thoracic emphysema,
leading to increased chest tube durations and prolonged hospital
stays.
77
−
80
In these cases, the prevention of air leaks is a critical
objective for patient management after pulmonary surgery. With
improved surgical techniques such as manual suturing and elec-
trocautery, complications due to intraoperative visceral pleural
injuries have been slightly minimized.
81
Nevertheless, di
culty due
to surgical constraints of the operations can still result in damage
to the surrounding tissues, as well as failure to effectively close
air leaks.
Currentmethods,includingtheuseofvariousbiologicalandsyn-
thetic sealants, are ineffective in the closure of intraoperative air
leaks that often occur during cardiothoracic surgeries, resulting in
a decreased quality of life for patients. We present the develop-
ment of a novel lung air leak sealant using tissue-engineered cell
sheets.
82
,
83
In contrast to previously used materials such as fibrin
glue, these bioengineered cell sheets immediately and permanently
sealairleaksinadynamicfashionthatallowsfortheextensivetissue
contractionandexpansioninvolvedinrespiration,withoutanypost-
operative recurrences. Additionally, we demonstrate that mesothe-
lial cells migrate to cover the transplanted cell sheets, thereby
confirming excellent biocompatibility and integration with the host
tissues. Finally, we present the use of skin fibroblasts as an effec-
tive and readily available autologous cell source that can be easily
applied.
Search WWH ::
Custom Search