An experimental model for improving fat graft viability and purity

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Autologous fat is a widely used soft-tissue filler due to its availability and natural look.
• Graft longevity remains a significant challenge, with reported success rates varying widely in existing literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a reproducible and clinically practical method for enhancing the viability and purity of autologous fat grafts.
• To establish a standardized protocol for preparing fat tissue for improved graft survival and integration.

Main Methods:

• A murine model was utilized, involving different fat harvest and preparation techniques.
• Viability and purity were assessed using trypan blue assay and hemocytometer counting.
• Investigated the impact of harvest methods (excision, blunt, needle), saline wash, centrifugation, and collagenase digestion.

Main Results:

• Excisional harvest yielded higher viability and purity compared to blunt or needle methods.
• Saline wash and centrifugation offered modest improvements in graft quality.
• Collagenase digestion followed by centrifugation and a single wash consistently achieved 96% viability and 93% purity.

Conclusions:

• A clinically practical, in vitro murine model was established for producing pure, viable single-cell adipocyte suspensions.
• The developed method ensures reproducible results regardless of the initial tissue harvest technique.
• This approach holds potential for improving the predictability and efficacy of autologous fat grafting procedures.