A groundbreaking advancement at a prominent Sydney hospital may revolutionise treatment for burns victims. The first-ever clinical trial to utilise 3D-printed skin for patient care has yielded successful results.
Rebecca Torbruege, who suffered severe burns during a go-kart accident, volunteered to be the inaugural recipient of this innovative procedure aimed at enhancing her skin graft site. After struggling to heal through traditional dressings, Torbruege opted for the cutting-edge solution, reporting minimal discomfort during the application. “I didn’t have any pain really, it was more like a one out of ten,” she shared, expressing satisfaction with the speed of her healing, despite the initial discolouration in her wound.
During the surgery in the burns unit of Concord Hospital, a biopsy of Torbruege’s skin was taken and then processed through a specialised 3D printer, which meticulously reconstructed skin layer by layer using her own cells. Dr Joanneke Maitz explained this process highlights the potential for regeneration by replacing lost tissue with naturally compatible material.
A demonstration of the technique involved applying the 3D-printed skin on a dummy, showcasing how clinical specialists control the application with precision. So far, five patients have successfully undergone the procedure, with plans for an additional five to follow in the coming months, after which a review of the trial will determine the next steps.
Dr Maitz expressed optimism for the impact of this technology, suggesting it could enhance surgical processes, making them quicker, more consistent, and more effective. As the research progresses, early findings could pave the way for transformative changes in how severe burns are treated, offering hope to many who suffer from the devastating effects of such injuries.