“PLASTERS” made from human stem cells could patch holes in youngsters’ hearts and save them from repeat ops.
The patches are being trialled on kids with genetic coronary heart defects.
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Medical doctors at present use non permanent package to restore holes or valves in the center — however it’s ultimately damaged down by the physique and wants changing throughout open coronary heart surgical procedure.
The tech, funded by the British Coronary heart Basis, could save the NHS tens of millions, with round 200 repeat ops every year costing £30,000 a time.
Professor Massimo Caputo, from the College of Bristol’s Coronary heart Institute, stated: “For years, households have come to us asking why their youngster must have coronary heart surgical procedure time and time once more.
“The expertise can put an unbelievable quantity of stress on the kid and their mother and father.
“We consider our stem cell patches would be the reply to resolve these issues.”
Round 13 infants are born daily with life-threatening issues with their coronary heart or blood vessels.
Prof Caputo’s stem cell patch could be sewn in as soon as and left to develop and fuse into the physique completely.
