Hand-held bioprinters assisting <i>in situ</i> bioprinting

摘要

Abstract Bioprinting, an advanced additive manufacturing technology, enables the fabrication of complex, viable three-dimensional (3D) tissues using bioinks composed of biomaterials and cells. This technology has transformative applications in regenerative medicine, drug screening, disease modeling, and biohybrid robotics. In particular, in situ bioprinting has emerged as a promising approach for directly repairing damaged tissues or organs at the defect site. Unlike traditional 3D bioprinting, which is confined to flat surfaces and require complex equipment, in situ techniques accommodate irregular geometries, dynamic environments and simple apparatus, offering greater versatility for clinical applications. In situ bioprinting via hand-held devices prioritize flexibility, portability, and real-time adaptability while allowing clinicians to directly deposit bioinks in anatomically complex areas, making them cost-effective, accessible, and suitable for diverse environments, including field surgeries. This review explores the principles, advancements, and comparative advantages of robotic and hand-held in situ bioprinting, emphasizing their clinical relevance. While robotic systems excel in precision and scalability, hand-held bioprinters offer unparalleled flexibility, affordability, and ease of use, making them a valuable tool for personalized and minimally invasive tissue engineering. Future research should focus on improving biosafety, aseptic properties, and bioink formulations to optimize these technologies for widespread clinical adoption.