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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

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Tissue-Engineered Graft for Circumferential Esophageal Reconstruction in Rats
Published on: February 10, 2020
Intrathoracic esophageal replacement by in situ tissue-engineered esophagus
Yuen Nakase1, Tatsuo Nakamura, Shuichi Kin
1Department of Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Division of Surgery and Physiology of Digestive System, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan. yuen-n@koto.kpu-m.ac.jp
The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|October 29, 2008
Summary
Tissue-engineered esophagus using oral cells and smooth muscle successfully replaced canine intrathoracic esophagus defects. This novel approach shows promise for treating esophageal diseases, avoiding strictures and maintaining function.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Esophageal defects pose significant surgical challenges.
- Current treatments for esophageal replacement have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an in situ tissue-engineered esophagus in a canine model.
- To assess the efficacy of replacing a full-circumferential intrathoracic esophageal defect.
Main Methods:
- Two scaffold types were created: KF(+) with oral cells and KF(-) without.
- Scaffolds were wrapped in omentum and implanted.
- Esophageal defects were created and replaced with the engineered grafts.
Main Results:
- KF(+) group showed a well-differentiated esophagus with stratified squamous cells and smooth muscle.
- KF(-) group developed severe strictures and obstruction.
- KF(+) group demonstrated good distensibility and maintained feeding for 420 days.
Conclusions:
- In situ tissue-engineered esophagus successfully replaced the intrathoracic esophagus in canines.
- This technique offers a promising surgical strategy for esophageal diseases.
- The engineered esophagus integrated well, mimicking native tissue structure.

