Three-Dimensional Bioprinted Autologous Minimally Manipulated Homologous Adipose Tissue for Skin Defects After Wide Excision of Skin Cancer Provides Early Wound Closure and Good Esthetic Patient Satisfaction.

Background

An autologous minimally manipulated homologous adipose tissue (AMHAT) fabricated using three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has shown potential in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers and other chronic wounds.

Methods

This study assessed the efficacy of AMHAT fabricated using 3D bioprinting for treating skin defects after a wide excision of skin cancer lesions where primary closure was not feasible. A total of 10 consecutive patients were included. The wounds were photographed and analyzed using AI, and the fat tissue harvested from the lower abdomen was processed into an AMHAT patch using a 3D bioprinter. The wound area was measured weekly until complete wound closure was achieved.

Results

The area of the skin defects ranged from 1.77-6.22 cm2, averaging 2.72 cm2. Complete closure was achieved in 3-5 (average, 4.2) weeks. The residual area decreased from 52% after 1 week to 3% after 4 weeks. The scar appearance was esthetically favorable, with one patient showing mild nostril asymmetry. Furthermore, patient-reported outcome evaluation using the Japanese version of SCAR-Q for postoperative scars showed a very high level of satisfaction.

Conclusions

The 3D bioprinted AMHAT accelerates wound healing with minimal scarring, offering an important option for skin defects where esthetics are a priority.