USE OF STEM CELLS IN TISSUE REGENERATION IN RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Keywords:
stem cells; reconstructive surgery; regenerative medicine; mesenchymal stem cells; tissue engineering; wound healingAbstract
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/yc.v10i18.0877
Abstract
Modern reconstructive surgery aims to restore form, function and quality of life in patients with tissue defects caused by trauma, burns, oncologic resections, congenital malformations, chronic wounds or complex tissue loss. In this context, stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem/stromal cells, have gained scientific relevance due to their ability to modulate inflammation, promote angiogenesis, secrete trophic factors, interact with biomaterials and support tissue repair. Despite their broad regenerative potential, clinical evidence remains heterogeneous and depends on cell source, processing, degree of manipulation, route of administration, biomaterial support, surgical indication and regulatory standards. This narrative review summarizes the biological basis, main cell sources, reconstructive applications, limitations, risks and translational perspectives of stem cell-based strategies in the regeneration of skin, adipose tissue, craniofacial bone, cartilage, muscle, peripheral nerve and complex wounds. Stem cell therapy is a promising but still complementary tool in reconstructive surgery. Safe clinical translation requires well-designed trials, reproducible cell characterization, good manufacturing practices, long-term follow-up and ethical communication of benefits and risks.
Keywords: stem cells; reconstructive surgery; regenerative medicine; mesenchymal stem cells; tissue engineering; wound healing.
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