Bile duct reconstruction using scaffold-free tubular constructs created by Bio-3D printer

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Hepatobiliary Surgery

Background:

• Biliary strictures post-bile duct injury or reconstruction cause significant morbidity.
• Current treatments involve repeated stent replacements, impacting patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a scaffold-free tubular construct for interposition grafting in biliary reconstruction.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a 3D-printed fibroblast tube in a preclinical model.

Main Methods:

• Scaffold-free tubular constructs were fabricated from allogeneic pig fibroblasts using a Bio-3D Printer.
• These fibroblast tubes were implanted as interposition grafts in pigs for duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction.

Main Results:

• The fibroblast tubes, though weaker than native ducts, were suitable for suturing.
• No biliary strictures, leaks, or dilations were observed post-implantation.
• Angiogenesis was noted within the graft, and fibroblasts persisted, maintaining graft integrity.

Conclusions:

• Successful extrahepatic bile duct reconstruction was achieved using a 3D-printed, scaffold-free fibroblast construct.
• This technology presents a promising regenerative treatment option for patients with hepatobiliary complications.