TECHNOLOGY
​NovoThelium has bioengineered a matrix derived from donor nipple areolar tissue that can be used as a graft for nipple reconstruction after mastectomy.
NIPPLE GRAFT
AFTER
MASTECTOMY
HOW DOES IT WORK?
1
CREATE NIPPLE MATRIX
2
GRAFT NIPPLE MATRIX
3
A NIPPLE MADE FROM YOUR CELLS
NovoThelium's patent pending technology enables us to create a nipple areolar scaffold from human donor tissue. Using this same technology, we can create an autologous nipple areolar scaffold from nipple tissue removed during a mastectomy.
A reconstructive surgeon grafts the nipple areolar scaffold onto the breast. The desired nipple location is thinly deepithelialized to leave a thick dermal base. The scaffold is sutured in place.
Cells from the patient repopulate the grafted nipple areolar complex scaffold to create an actual nipple made with the patient’s own cells.
WHY USE OUR TECHNOLOGY?
Biocompatibility
Allograft tissue has a high rate of incorporation with limited resorption, reducing risk of infection and extrusion. Maintained structure and biochemistry of the tissue matrix allows for tissue integration into the graft, with native cells repopulating the matrix.
Natural scaffold
A scaffold derived from nipple areolar tissue preserves complex cell signaling cues and sub-micron level tissue architecture specific to the nipple. These cues positively impact the processes of proliferation, differentiation, and migration of native cells into the scaffold.
Reconstruction with a real nipple
Current reconstruction techniques recreate the appearance of a nipple. Our scaffold enables patients to regenerate a nipple made from their own cells after mastectomy.
Regenerated pigmentation and sensation
NovoThelium is developing methods to regenerate pigmentation using cell signaling cues specific to the nipple to promote melanocyte survival. We are also developing methods to improve reconstructed nipple sensation by using guided nerve growth technology.
Disclaimer: NovoThelium's nipple areolar matrix is not available for clinical use at this time. The information contained in these topics is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.