Objective:
Alloplastic implants have been used clinically to treat congenital abnormalities and traumatic injuries. However, these implants are often associated with complications, including inflammation and infection. To minimize these complications, tissue-engineered cartilage serves as a shell that covers the implant provides the potentials. This study is designed to improve the stability between the implant and recipient tissue.

Materials and Methods:
Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and chondrocytes isolated from human microtic ear were expanded in vitro. The cells were mixed with hydrogel for coating an ear-shaped implant. The surface of the implant was modified using plasma solution to provide hydrophilic characteristic. The engineered cartilage-covered implants were implanted into the dorsal subcutaneous space of athymic mice. Gross observation and histologic analysis of the hybrid implants were performed at 4 and 12 weeks after implantation.

Results:
None of the engineered cartilage-covered implants showed evidence of skin necrosis or implant exposure at each time point. However, the control implants developed some extensive necrosis after implantation for 3 months. In the experimental group, histologic evaluations showed the formation of neocartilage covering the implants. The presence of sulfated glycosaminoglycans was also evident in the engineered cartilage tissue.

Conclusions:
Results of this study demonstrate that engineered cartilage tissues from microtic tissue can be used as a biological cover for an alloplastic implant. The strategy may improve the structural and functional interactions between the implant and the recipient’s tissues and thus enhance the overall outcome of auricular cartilage reconstruction.

Download