Creating 3D printed nipple-areolar complex implants for breast reconstruction
3D Bioprinted Nipple-Areolar Complex Implants
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · NIH-11085143
This study is working on a special implant that can help make breast reconstruction after a mastectomy look more natural by creating a personalized nipple and areola that blends in with your body, using advanced 3D printing technology.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11085143 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a personalized, bioresorbable implant for the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) to aid in breast reconstruction after mastectomy due to breast cancer. The project aims to create a hybrid biomaterial implant that mimics the natural shape and texture of the nipple and areola, which often gets overlooked in traditional reconstruction methods. By utilizing advanced 3D bioprinting techniques, the researchers will design and fabricate implants tailored to individual patient anatomy, promoting tissue ingrowth and eventual degradation of the implant to leave behind natural-looking tissue. The study will explore various design parameters to optimize the implants for clinical use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer and are seeking reconstruction options for the nipple-areolar complex.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone mastectomy or those who do not wish to pursue breast reconstruction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women undergoing mastectomy with a more natural and aesthetically pleasing reconstruction option for the nipple-areolar complex.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of 3D bioprinting for tissue reconstruction is emerging, this specific approach to NAC reconstruction is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK — COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FISHER, JOHN P — UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK
- Study coordinator: FISHER, JOHN P
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.