Cell Sheets for Pre-Seeding Scaffolds Used in Wound Healing and Tissue Integration

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Richard Koepsel, PhD

McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine
University of Pittsburgh

Recovery from extensive injuries usually entails long-term placement of trans-dermal devices. This is a constant source of infection and inflammation. If, however, the device could be integrated into the tissue its long-term effectiveness could be enhanced leading to improved healing. Additionally, long-term integration of prosthetic devices would be improved if the edges of the device in contact with the tissues were seamlessly integrated with the patient’s tissues. Successful completion of this project will be the first steps toward biologically relevant integration of devices such as permanent, or semi-permanent, indwelling catheters, devices that allow access of power cords for ventricular assist devices, and integrated prosthetics. The common theme is that an inert, usually plastic, material needs to be inserted through the skin or other tissue to provide access and to integrate with tissue. The long-term outcomes of this research could lead to a reduction in recovery time and a faster return to either active duty or shorter hospital stays.