Creating personalized molds for breast reconstruction after mastectomy
Official title: Clinical decision-support algorithms for interactive design of patient-specific breast molds
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-10982126 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to create personalized molds for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, using 3D printing technology to help you feel more satisfied with your body image by making the molds fit your unique shape better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $665,331 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA286648-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982126 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are feminine-presenting individuals who have undergone mastectomy and are seeking breast reconstruction that aligns with their personal aesthetic goals.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking breast reconstruction or those who prefer standard reconstruction methods may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing clinical decision-support algorithms to create patient-specific molds for breast reconstruction, which can help individuals regain their desired body image after mastectomy. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these molds through a randomized controlled clinical trial, addressing the limitations of current methods that often only replicate the original breast shape. By allowing for customized breast forms, the research seeks to improve the aesthetic outcomes and overall satisfaction of patients undergoing autologous reconstruction. The approach combines advanced 3D printing technology with algorithmic design to tailor molds to individual patient needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the quality of life for patients by providing more satisfactory and personalized breast reconstruction outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While some proof-of-concept studies have shown the feasibility of patient-specific molds, this research aims to rigorously evaluate their impact, making it a novel approach in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merchant, Fatima Aziz — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Merchant, Fatima Aziz
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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.