Doctors at Kanev University Hospital in Ruse have successfully treated large wounds using a 3D bioprinter and artificial intelligence (AI), according to Stela Krasteva from the hospital’s public relations department.
This groundbreaking procedure, new to Northern Bulgaria, was carried out by a team led by Dr. Stoyan Genadiev from the Vascular Surgery Department, alongside plastic surgeon Dr. Stanimir Georgiev from the Surgery Department.
Two patients, who had lost significant tissue due to severe blood vessel blockages, were treated with the help of this cutting-edge technology, which is otherwise only available at Sveti Georgi University Hospital in Plovdiv, South Central Bulgaria. The patients’ wounds were healed following the procedure.
The process involved extracting fat cells (lipocytes) from the patient, which were then used to create a custom 3D bioprinted insert. After taking detailed photos of the wound, AI was used to calculate the size, depth, and the exact amount of bioink required for the bioprinter to create a tailor-made bio-plate for the wound.
This innovative method helps patients recover faster and more safely.
The hospital in Ruse believes that similar equipment should be made available across the country, as it could greatly benefit patients with various types of tissue damage or long-lasting wounds.
