Arvina: Personalized Breast Reconstruction with Biodegradable Biomaterials
Breast cancer affects countless lives, with statistics indicating that approximately one in seven women will face this challenge during their lifetime. In the Netherlands alone, this translates to around 18,000 patients each year. Following breast cancer, two-thirds of these patients are confronted with the difficult journey of partial or complete mastectomy, leading to a pressing demand for effective breast reconstruction methods that can restore not only form but also ensure emotional and physical comfort.
The Emergence of Fat Transplantation Techniques
Fat transplantation has emerged as a promising alternative for breast reconstruction, tapping into the body’s own resources for a more natural outcome. This technique is becoming preferred due to its minimally invasive nature, avoiding the complexities of traditional surgeries. However, this method faces challenges, as a significant portion of transplanted fat cells fails to survive in the long term.
VivArt-X: Trailblazing in Breast Reconstruction Technology
Enter VivArt-X, a visionary company at the forefront of this medical challenge, working in collaboration with TU/e (Eindhoven University of Technology) and SBMC (Smart BioMaterials Consortium). VivArt-X is developing Arvina, a synthetic biodegradable biomaterial designed to serve as a scaffold for transplanted fat cells, enhancing their attachment, growth, and longevity.
Arvina: A Temporary Matrix for Enhanced Cell Survival
Arvina’s groundbreaking technology addresses the primary issue of cell survival post-transplantation. By providing a temporary matrix, Arvina facilitates the integration and durability of the fat cells, significantly reducing the need for additional surgeries and the accompanying psychological and physical distress.
The Impact of Arvina on Women’s Lives and Healthcare
This innovation holds the potential to transform breast reconstruction, offering a personalized treatment that is both cost-efficient and less invasive. The implementation of Arvina stands to enhance the quality of life for breast cancer survivors, reducing healthcare burdens and fostering a smoother recovery journey.
European Union and Noord-Brabant: Supporting Medical Advancements
The development of Arvina is made possible through the support of the European Union and the Province Noord-Brabant, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing medical technology and supporting women’s health.
