Aug. 15, 2014
New advancements in 3D printing could already improve and save lives with reproducing human cells in laboratories. While companies like Organovo and Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine are on the path to use the technology to create blood vessels, skin tissue or human organs, another company, TeVido BioDevices is working on 3D printing skin grafts for patients.
Austin-based TeVido BioDevices is working to develop patent-pending technology, Cellatier to use 3D printers to reconstruct and print breast tissue specifically for breast cancer survivors.
TeVido's first focus is on improvements in nipple reconstruction, a significant unmet need with currently limited options for women undergoing breast reconstruction post-mastectomy, said Laura Bosworth, CEO of TeVido BioDevices.
The company has been using 3D bio-printing of fat and skin cells to build custom nipple areola complex (NAC) graft made just for the patient. In the future, TeVido hopes the technology should also be capable of helping those who suffer from severe burns and chronic non-healing wounds.
In addition to nipple reconstruction, TeVido is working on providing better solutions for correcting asymmetry due to lumpectomies. The company says that at least "25% are dissatisfied with the physical outcome of the remaining breast tissue after lumpectomy treatment, and those women were far more likely to experience symptoms of depression and fear of cancer recurrence compared to women with minimal asymmetry."
"We envision using our 3D bioprinting technology to provide better solutions for correcting asymmetry due to lumpectomies and other breast contour challenges in reconstruction." said Bosworth.
TeVido was recently selected as one of 20 entries to move onto the Martha and Kozo Shimano Entrepreneur Accelerator Program phase of the LIVESTRONG Foundation's Big C competition, aiming to change the way the world lives with cancer. TeVido BioDevices will now be vying for one of five spots in the contest's final round, competing to win $25,000.
For now, TeVido is able to create small grafts. Next the team wants to find out the ideal parameters for the best and most stable product. In the future the technology could allow them to print grafts that are fully integrated for both cosmetic and medical needs. It is estimated the final products will be in the market in five years.
Source: TechCrunch
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
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