Purpose:
Many reports have been proved the auricular reconstruction using synthetic artificial auricle is an effective approach. However, the risk of infection and exposure after implantation remains occurred possibly.
Materials and Methods:
This work develops a novel customized polyethylene porous auricle scaffold made of PE by “Additive Manufacturing” technology to overcome this issue. Using this strategy might not only promote the desirable cellular interaction but also to further reduce the exposure possibility after implantation. The physicochemical properties, cellular interactions, and animal tests of these auricle scaffolds are carried out and then are compared to Medpor®, the current artificial auricle.
Results:
The analytical results show no significant difference in the physicochemical properties of the auricle scaffold after processing. Additionally, the cellular interaction of this auricle scaffold displays the ability for the extracellular matrix secretion with no significant cytotoxicity.
Conclusions:
The results in histology show the indigenous cell could ingrow into the porous of the scaffold, more than that in Medpor®. Therefore, based on these results, the porous customized auricle scaffold becomes a promising alternative for auricular reconstruction in the future.
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