The use of autologous tissue in the reconstruction of tissue defects has been the gold standard. However, current standards still face many limitations and complications. Improving patient outcomes and quality of life by addressing these barriers remain imperative. This article provides historical perspective, covers the major limitations of current standards of care, and reviews recent advances and future prospects in applied bioengineering in the context of tissue reconstruction, replacement, and regeneration.
Keywords: biomaterials; donor-site morbidity; drug delivery; genetic engineering; immunobiology; reconstructive surgery; regenerative medicine; stem cells; tissue engineering; tissue replacement; wound healing.