Chapter 4 – Regenerative Implants for Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering

A fundamental problem that affects the field of cardiovascular surgery is the paucity of autologous tissue available for surgical reconstructive procedures. The use of organ transplantation or prosthetics devices comes with an array of complications related to biocompatibility, rejection, and donor organ scarcity. The field of tissue engineering represents a promising new option for replacement of surgical procedures. Intensive interdisciplinary, translational research into regenerative cardiovascular implants has been undertaken to improve surgical outcome and better quality of life for patients with cardiovascular defects. Vascular, valvular, and heart tissue repair are the focus of these efforts. Various preclinical studies and clinical trials using these advances have shown that tissue-engineered materials are a viable option for surgical repair, but require refinement if they are going to reach their clinical potential.