Using advanced techniques to improve tissue grafts for facial reconstruction
Official title: Leveraging Microsurgery and Bioprinting for Rapidly Oriented Vascularized Tissue Engineering
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11218208 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to help people heal better after surgery for facial injuries by using tiny needles and 3D printing to create grafts that connect more effectively with blood vessels, making recovery faster and easier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $685,594 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DE035200-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11218208 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from craniomaxillofacial injuries requiring reconstructive surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to craniomaxillofacial injuries or those who do not require surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing reconstructive surgery for craniomaxillofacial injuries by developing new methods to improve the vascularization of tissue-engineered grafts. The approach combines microsurgery techniques, specifically vascular micropuncture, with cutting-edge 3D printing technology to create better blood vessel integration in grafts. By using a fine needle to create small perforations in blood vessels, the research aims to promote faster healing and integration of the grafts into the body. This innovative method seeks to overcome current limitations in reconstructive surgery and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and reliable reconstructive surgeries, resulting in better functional and cosmetic outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar microsurgical and tissue engineering techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ozbolat, Ibrahim — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Ozbolat, Ibrahim
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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.