A Review of 3D Bioprinting Technologies in the Reconstruction of Human Nasal Cartilaginous Tissue

Abstract

Background Frequent nose defects due to inborn causes or accidents have increased the demand for rhinoplasty. In addition to a functional defect, nose defects are also known as aesthetic defects because the shape of the nose is one of the most prominent features that define the human face. Hence, common reconstruction methods could not meet the requirements caused by limitations. Objective This study investigates the ability of different three-dimensional bioprinting methods to repair defects in the nose area. Methods In this review study, articles available in ScienceDirect, Springer, Wiley, Cambridge, De Gruyter, and Google Scholar databases were used. The search was done using the following keywords: Tissue engineering, nasal cartilage, 3D bioprinting, and bioink materials. The search was done with a time limit of the last 4 years. Out of 300 eligible articles, 159 articles were finally reviewed. Results Bioprinting has special potential for repairing nasal cartilaginous tissue. Hydrogels have become an excellent option for mimicking the microenvironment of the host tissue due to their porosity and ability to load different materials, as well as their ability to absorb water and encapsulate cells. On the other hand, the two main cell sources for tissue engineering of nasal cartilage are autologous chondrocytes and mesenchymal stem cells. Conclusion Bioprinting technology can bio-mimic the cartilage host tissue to an acceptable degree morphologically, biochemically, and mechanically to be implanted surgically. Although the use of bioprinting at the clinical level still faces limitations, the prospect of this technology is promising since it can fix nasal defects with low cost, unique accuracy, and personalization.

Keywords

• bioprinting
• nose
• tissue engineering
• cartilage tissue
• biocompatible material