Objective To sum up the research advances in urethra reconstruction with tissue engineering techniques. Methods The recent original articles about urethra reconstruction with engineering techniques were extensively reviewed. Results At present, human urothelium and smooth muscle cells have been successfully harvested，cultivated, and expanded in vitro in sufficient quantitiesfor reconstruction. Tissue engineering for urethral reconstruction includes matrices alone, the body’s natural ability which induces new tissue growth, or the use of matrices with cells. Conclusion The tissue engineering materials for urethral reconstruction has been used successfully to repair defect of hypospadias and urethral strictures. The reconstructionof complex urethral defects need to be improved and developed.
Citation： HANPing,WEI Qiang,YANG Yuru.. ADVANCE IN URETHRAL RECONSTRUCTION WITH TISSUE ENGINEERING TECHNIQUES. Chinese Journal of Reparative and Reconstructive Surgery, 2006, 20(3): 243-246. doi: Copy