3D Bioengineered Skin Grafts Fit Complex Anatomy

3D Bioengineered Skin Grafts Fit Complex Anatomy

Researchers at Columbia University’s Irving Medical Center have developed a method to create three-dimensional bioengineered skin grafts. To date, bioengineered skin is typically created in flat sheets. However, these are difficult to fit to complex anatomy, such as the hand, and so these researchers have designed a more sophisticated technique that combines laser scanning, 3D printing, and cell culture to create seamless three dimensional skin grafts. For instance, the researchers have already created a skin “glove” that could be useful in replacing skin on the hands by simply slipping it over the hand (just like a glove). Replacing skin that has…

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Antibacterial Smart Sutures Visible in CT Scans

Antibacterial Smart Sutures Visible in CT Scans

Researchers at RMIT University in Australia have developed ‘smart stitches’ that can fight bacteria and reveal the location of the sutured area in CT scans. The sutures have been developed to reduce the chances of surgical site infections and also make life a little easier for clinicians, as the material shows up in CT scans, allowing for identification of the location of the sutures in the body and quick assessment if they are performing as required. In particular, the researchers envisage the sutures as a replacement for vaginal meshes that are used to treat prolapses, for which surgical site infection […]…

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