3D Bioprinting in Otolaryngology: A Review.

The evolution of tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting has allowed for increased opportunities to generate musculoskeletal tissue grafts that can enhance functional and aesthetic outcomes in otolaryngology- head and neck surgery. Despite literature reporting successes in the fabrication of cartilage and bone scaffolds for applications in the head and neck, the full potential of this technology has yet to be realized. Otolaryngology as a field has always been at the forefront of new advancements and technology and is well poised to spearhead clinical application of these engineered tissues. In this review, we describe current 3D bioprinting methods and present an overview of potential cell types, bioinks, and bioactive factors available for musculoskeletal engineering using this technology. We review the otologic, nasal, tracheal, and craniofacial bone applications of 3D bioprinting with a focus on engineered graft implantation in animal models to highlight the status of functional outcomes in vivo; a necessary step to future clinical translation. Continued multidisciplinary efforts between material chemistry, biological sciences, and otolaryngologists will play a key in role in the translation of engineered, 3D bioprinted constructs for head and neck surgery. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.