Advances in Tissue Engineering and Implications for Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background Reconstructive surgery in the oral and maxillofacial region poses many challenges due to the complexity of the facial skeleton and the presence of composite defects involving soft tissue, bone and nerve defects. Methods Current methods of reconstruction include autologous grafting techniques with local or regional rotational flaps or microvascular free flaps, allografts, xenografts and prosthetic devices. Results Tissue engineering therapies utilizing stem cells provide promise for enhancing the current reconstructive options. Conclusions This article is a review on tissue engineering strategies applicable to specialists who treat oral and maxillofacial defects. Practical implications We review advancements in hard tissue regeneration for dental rehabilitation, soft tissue engineering, nerve regeneration and innovative strategies for reconstruction of major defects.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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