The University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC) has recently adopted a new biobased 3D printing technology for the treatment of chronic wounds. The process involves converting a patient’s own fat tissue into so-called bioink, which is then used by a specialized 3D printer to create customized tissue structures. The goal is to support the regeneration of wounds that are slow to heal—especially those associated with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or vascular insufficiency.
The procedure combines image-based modeling, artificial intelligence, and cellular tissue engineering. Using high-resolution photographs, a precise 3D model of the wound is generated. Physicians then extract a small amount of fat tissue, usually from the abdominal area. This tissue is processed into a cell-rich carrier solution that serves as the bioink. The resulting material is printed layer by layer into a patient-specific implant, tailored exactly in shape and depth to the wound.
“Most wounds heal on their own. It may take some time or require minor surgery, but most cuts and abrasions are eventually going to heal,” said Dr. Munier Nazzal, who is chief of the Division of Vascular, Endovascular Surgery and Wound Care at UTMC. “However, some wounds, particularly in patients with underlying medical conditions, fail to heal for months or even years. This technology is going to make a huge difference.”
“It’s almost like printing a puzzle piece,” Nazzal said. “We’re able to make a graft that is an exact fit for the wound, and that graft is going to promote healing. It’s not magic — it’s not healing tomorrow, but it’s healing faster than we see from our traditional methods of treatment. We’re very early on in this, but it has shown good results.”
Unlike traditional skin grafts, this implant does not replace the skin but instead supports the body’s natural healing process through cellular activity and protective mechanisms.
“I got to the point where it was just come in, change the bandage, come in, change the bandage. Nothing was really happening,” he said. “One of the nurses asked if I wanted to try a new procedure. I thought OK, what the heck. I’ve tried everything else.”
“I have a lot of faith in these doctors and nurses here. Any time they start something new, I’m more than happy to try it out,” he said. “Not only for myself, but for whoever comes after me. And I’m not disappointed by the results. This has been with me a long time, but it’s starting to heal.”
One early example of this treatment’s success is patient Jeffrey Paul, whose chronic wound had shown little progress after years of therapy. Following the procedure, he saw visible improvement within just a few weeks.
“It’s our responsibility to stay up to date on the latest technology and knowledge so we can best serve our patients. These new technologies help us tailor the treatment plans to the specific patient needs,” Nazzal said. “We are so grateful for our donor’s faith in our program and their generosity that has allowed us to add these cutting-edge tools.”
The new system was funded by a donation from a former patient. In addition, two more devices were acquired for microbiological analysis and oxygen saturation monitoring of wounds, allowing for more targeted therapy adjustments. The method complements existing treatment approaches but does not fully replace them.
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