Bioengineering Full-scale auricles using 3D-printed external scaffolds and decellularized cartilage xenograft.

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Auricular reconstruction presents significant challenges for plastic surgeons.
• Current methods using autologous cartilage or alloplastic implants often yield suboptimal aesthetic and tactile results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To bioengineer full-scale human auricles using decellularized cartilage xenografts within 3D-printed scaffolds.
• To mimic the native auricle's size, shape, and biomechanical properties.

Main Methods:

• 3D-printed polylactic acid scaffolds were created from adult ear photogrammetry data.
• Ovine costal cartilage was minced or zested, decellularized, and sterilized.
• Scaffolds were seeded with cartilage and implanted in a small animal bioreactor for 6 months.

Main Results:

• Bioengineered ears maintained scaffold size and contour with consistent tissue ingrowth over 6 months.
• Histological analysis revealed homogenous fibrovascular tissue integration by 6 months.
• Constructs demonstrated pliability and elasticity confirmed by biomechanical testing.

Conclusions:

• This study demonstrates a successful bioengineering strategy for full-scale auricular constructs.
• The neoears exhibit promising structural integrity and tissue integration for potential clinical applications.
• Further long-term studies with degradable biomaterials are recommended for future clinical translation.