How different methods of preparing your own fat for grafting change the graft tissue
Characterizing the autologous fat graft microenvironment resulting from differential intraoperative processing techniques: A comparative analysis and its clinical implications
Comparing three ways surgeons prepare a patient's own fat before breast reconstruction to see which methods keep the most fat and healthiest tissue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11264869 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at fat samples taken from patients who are already enrolled in a randomized trial of three different devices that process lipoaspirate before it is injected. Researchers will examine the samples under the microscope and use lab measures to find tiny changes in fat cells and supporting tissue caused by each processing method. They will link those microscopic findings to how much fat stays over time and any complications. The goal is to identify features that predict graft survival so doctors can choose better processing methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults scheduled for autologous fat grafting—for example, breast reconstruction after mastectomy—who can provide fat samples during their procedure are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People not having fat grafting or those without enough harvestable fat are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help surgeons choose a fat-processing method that improves graft survival and reduces complications for patients receiving autologous fat grafts.
How similar studies have performed: Prior reports document wide variation in fat graft retention, but randomized controlled comparisons of processing devices are lacking, so this approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Otterburn, David — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Otterburn, David
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.