Micro-computed tomography for implantation site imaging during in situ oesophagus tissue engineering in a live small animal model.

For tissue engineering of gastrointestinal organs, in situ implantation of constructs in the omentum is performed to utilize the body as a bioreactor for tissue generation. In this approach, constructs are fabricated into tubes, using stents, and implanted in the omentum to induce vascularization. In order to evaluate the constructs and its environment during the period of in situ tissue engineering in the rat model, micro-computed tomography imaging was performed. Imaging using micro-computed tomography was useful in localization of the position of the construct, evaluation of implant site tissue, degree of peripheral inflammation to neighbouring tissues and migration of the implanted construct. Images also enable the estimation of the dimensions of the construct and imaging of cyst formations or fluid accumulations on the luminal side of the tubular construct or ascites formation. Since micro-computed tomography is a non-invasive method, it can be repeated for evaluation of implanted constructs if in situ tissue engineering is performed over longer periods.