Creating layered tissues for facial reconstruction during surgery

Intraoperative bioprinting of composite tissues with zonal stratification for craniomaxillofacial reconstruction

['FUNDING_R01'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE · NIH-10755252

This study is exploring a new way to help people with facial injuries or defects by using 3D printing to create custom tissue during surgery, making repairs look and work better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10755252 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the repair of craniomaxillofacial (CMF) defects by using advanced 3D bioprinting techniques. It aims to create multi-layer composite tissues that mimic the natural structure of facial tissues, using stem cells and differentiation factors to ensure proper tissue development. The bioprinting process occurs directly during surgery, allowing for personalized and precise reconstructions tailored to the patient's specific defects. By integrating various tissue types, the goal is to enhance both the functional and aesthetic outcomes of CMF surgeries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals requiring surgical repair of craniomaxillofacial defects due to trauma, congenital conditions, or tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with non-surgical facial issues or those who do not have craniomaxillofacial defects may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the outcomes of facial reconstruction surgeries, leading to better healing and more natural-looking results for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in 3D bioprinting has shown promising results in tissue engineering, suggesting that this approach could be effective for CMF reconstruction as well.

Where this research is happening

UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.