3D bioprinted coverage-type lung patch for postoperative wound sealing and prevention of pulmonary air leakage.

Postoperative pulmonary air leakage is a common complication after thoracic surgery. We developed a 3D-bioprinted hydrogel patch using a PLMA/PEGNB/XG bioink via PTPC. In both ex vivo and in vivo models, the patch effectively sealed lung injuries and reduced air leakage compared with conventional methods.