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Optimization Of Porcine Model for Assessing Adipose Tissue Engraftment and Retention: Implications for Clinical Applications
Bahaa Shaaban, MD, MS, MA
Shawn Loder, MD
Alexandra Vagonis, BA
Phoebe Lee, BS
Baris Bengur, MD
Rachel Ricketts, BS
Divya Ramkumar, BS
Yadira Villalvazo, MD, MS
Pooja Humar, BS
Yusuf Surucu, MD
Vincent Nerone, BA
Charles Amurgis, BSE
Peter J. Rubin, MD, MBA
Lauren Kokai, PhD
Adipose Stem Cell Center, University of Pittsburgh
2023-02-10
Presenter: Bahaa Shaaban, MD, MS, MA
Affidavit:
Dr. Bahaa Shaaban played a key role in the planning phase of the study. During the execution phase, Bahaa was highly involved in the day-to-day operations. He also played a crucial role in analyzing the data collected to provide meaningful insights and recommendations.
Director Name: J Peter Rubin
Author Category: Fellow Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Basic Science Research
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
The examination of human adipose tissue viability using murine adipose xenograft models presents limitations, including size constraint, anatomical mismatch, and host immunocompromised state. To address these limitations, porcine models offer a more feasible alternative for larger autologous grafts and greater anatomical similarity to human skin and subcutaneous tissues. This study aimed to optimize surgical techniques in porcine models, enhancing long-term evaluation of adipose engraftment, retention, and postoperative complications. 8 female Yorkshire pigs underwent a 3-month observation period following allogeneic adipose tissue implantation. Tissue viability was evaluated through processing methods and viability of fresh and frozen tissue. The effect of recipient site suture isolation was also evaluated. Pigs were monitored through ultrasound and photography and any observed complications were managed. Terminal grafts were collected and weighed, with volumetric assessment performed. A procedure was devised for preparing adipose tissue by sequential slicing, mincing, and milling for injection via 16-18G cannulae. The results showed a significant decrease in average graft volume with cryopreserved tissue compared to fresh tissue (p=0.028). The suture-delay surgical site preparation technique improved localization of the graft (p=0.015) and decreased spread in subcutaneous spaces, resulting in enhanced retention. Rejection was observed upon histologic evaluation, including T-cell infiltration, fibrosis, uneven distribution of adipocytes, and necrotic areas. The porcine model was determined as a suitable platform for adipose tissue procurement, processing, and transplantation, allowing for fat graft volume retention assessment in an immunocompetent animal model. However, efforts to transition to an autologous model are underway to further reduce potential for rejection.
