In vitro assessment of decellularized porcine dermis as a matrix for urinary tract reconstruction

The contribution by the units in York and Leeds to tissue-engineering research is considerable, and they describe here their work to assess a natural matrix for use in the urinary tract, and to develop an in vitro regimen for assessing the biocompatibility of potential biomaterials. They describe how they have developed a simple, reproducible and rigorous regimen which will help to identify the causes of potential bio-incompatibility. Buccal mucosa has become the tissue of choice for urethroplasty. Authors from Edinburgh report on the oral complications after its harvesting; they found that most patients were satisfied with its use, but that it had long-term complications, about which patients should be informed.