3D Bioprinting:principles, fantasies and prospects

Abstract

Conventional three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques have been growing in importance in the field of reconstructive surgery. Three-dimensional bioprinting is the adaptation of 3D printing techniques to tissue engineering, through the use of a bio-ink containing living cells and biomaterials. We hereby describe the principles of bioprinting, its main current limitations, and the prospects of this technique. A PubMed/MEDLINE search was performed. A total of 40 publications were included. To date, most of the tissues have been printed with promising results in vitro (e.g., skin, cartilage, and muscle). The first animal studies are promising for small-scale defects. Vascularization issues are the main limitation to printing large constructs. Once the barrier of vascularization is overcome, printing organs and composite tissues of any size could be possible, opening the doors for personalized medicine based on medical imaging. Printing custom-made autologous grafts or flaps could minimize donor site morbidity and maximize the morphological results. Considering the potential future applications of bioprinting in the field of reconstructive surgery, one has to be aware of this tool, which could drastically change our practice.

Keywords: 3D Printing; Bioprinting; Microsurgical free flaps; Organ culture techniques; Reconstructive surgical procedures; Tissue engineering.