Objectives/Hypothesis: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a bioengineered prosthesis with allogenic heterotopic fibroblasts for cricoid regeneration.
Study Design: Experimental study using a rat model.
Methods: Bioengineered prosthetic grafts consisting of collagen sponge, polypropylene mesh, collagen gel, and allogenic dermal fibroblasts were implanted into rat cricoid defects. Control grafts were composed of collagen sponge and polypropylene mesh. Regenerated subglottic tissue was subsequently examined histologically.
Results: Epithelization and changes of collagen fibers occurred more rapidly in the bioengineered model than in the control model. Neogenetic cartilage was observed to form around the ends of cricoid cartilage in both models.
Conclusions: Heterotopic fibroblasts appear to accelerate epithelial and subepithelial regeneration in a rat model.