Clinical application of in situ tissue engineering using a scaffolding technique for reconstruction of the larynx and trachea.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the present study was to demonstrate the efficacy of the clinical application of in situ tissue engineering using a scaffolding technique for laryngeal and tracheal tissue.

METHODS

We have developed a tissue scaffold made from a Marlex mesh tube covered by collagen sponge. Based on successful animal experimental studies, in situ tissue engineering with a scaffold implant was applied to repair the larynx and trachea in 4 patients.

RESULTS

In 1 patient with subglottic stenosis, the thyroid cartilage, cricoid cartilage, and cervical trachea with scarring and granulation were resected and reconstructed by use of the scaffold. In 3 patients with thyroid cancer, the trachea and cricoid cartilage with tumor invasion were resected and the scaffold was implanted into the defect. Postoperative endoscopy during the observation period of 8 to 34 months showed a well-epithelialized airway lumen without any obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

Our current technique of in situ tissue engineering using a scaffold shows great potential for use in the regeneration of airway defects.