CO2-Based Tissue Expansion: A Study of Initial Performance in Ovine Subjects

Abstract

This CO(2)-based tissue expansion system offers a novel and potentially valuable tool for reconstructive surgery. This study demonstrated the in vivo performance of a CO(2)-based tissue expander in an ovine model and merits future clinical research efforts. All tested devices accomplished needle-free expansion with the expanders responding to dosage-controller commands within programmed safety limitations. This system has the potential to expedite expansion through gradual, controlled distention of tissue and to simplify the process for both physician and patient.

Comparison between traditional saline versus air expanders: a patient’s perspective

“…Our study remains consistent with previous findings in that no adverse events related to air travel were reported with either expansion method, which supports the safety of CO 2 in spite of the theoretical risks reported in previous literature. 4,5 Our case series supports a paradigm shift towards a less invasive and more economic tissue expansion process, which will reduce arduous follow-up whilst empowering breast cancer patients to have autonomy over their choice of expansion. Our study is the first of its kind to have internal case-controls, allowing a comparison of both methods with greater reliability.…”

“…4,5 Our case series supports a paradigm shift towards a less invasive and more economic tissue expansion process, which will reduce arduous follow-up whilst empowering breast cancer patients to have autonomy over their choice of expansion. 4,5 Our case series supports a paradigm shift towards a less invasive and more economic tissue expansion process, which will reduce arduous follow-up whilst empowering breast cancer patients to have autonomy over their choice of expansion.…”

Radiation testing of the AeroForm co2-based breast tissue expander implant

“…AirXpanders (AirXpanders, Inc., Palo Alto, California USA), in an effort to provide the patient with a more comfortable, gradual tissue expansion process that they control, has manufactured and is investigating a breast tissue expansion system consisting of an implantable tissue expander (AeroForm™) and a handheld radio-frequency dosage controller. The dosage controller communicates with the expander and allows the patient to administer 10 cc doses of CO 2 from a reservoir within the expander; pre-clinical and feasibility studies have been reported [ 4 , 5 ].…”

Carbon Dioxide versus Saline Tissue Expanders

“…The expander is operated by a radio-controlled valve that, when stimulated by a remote control device, releases a fixed volume of carbon dioxide into the expander as described previously, 5 completely eliminating the need for percutaneous injections. This Patient Activated Controlled Expansion I trial followed an earlier study with the AeroForm expander in an ovine model that had demonstrated successful tissue expansion in under 2 weeks for expanders of a variety of sizes (400, 650, 850, and 1100 cc), with no adverse events reported 10 (Fig. 1).…”