Polyurethane scaffolds seeded with autologous cells can regenerate long esophageal gaps: An esophageal atresia treatment model

Preclinical study demonstrates successful esophageal regeneration in piglets using polyurethane scaffolds seeded with either autologous esophageal epithelial cells or amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Both cell types showed viability and proliferation in bioreactor culture, and implanted scaffolds regenerated functional esophageal tissue with epithelial and muscle layers within three weeks, establishing proof-of-concept for treating long-gap esophageal atresia in neonates.