At the 8th World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS 2025), held on February 8-9, 2025, at The Leela Ambience Gurugram, India, Prof. Ashok Puranik, the Executive Director of AIIMS Guwahati, delivered an insightful presentation on the advancements in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. His extensive experience in trauma surgery and surgical intensive care has significantly contributed to the development of innovative approaches in these fields.
 
Innovations in Tissue Engineering
 
Prof. Puranik highlighted the transformative potential of tissue engineering in modern medicine. He discussed the development of biodegradable scaffolds that serve as temporary structures, facilitating the growth of new tissues. These scaffolds gradually dissolve, leaving behind fully functional, patient-specific tissues. This approach is particularly beneficial in cardiac surgery, where bioengineered heart valves can grow with pediatric patients, reducing the need for multiple surgeries.
 
Advancements in Regenerative Medicine
 
In the realm of regenerative medicine, Prof. Puranik emphasized the role of stem cell therapy and gene editing technologies. He discussed the use of allograft tissues, such as adipose-derived extracellular matrices, which stimulate the body's own cells to regenerate damaged tissues. These therapies offer promising alternatives to traditional treatments, addressing issues like volume loss and tissue damage with natural, long-lasting results.
 
Clinical Applications and Future Directions
 
Prof. Puranik shared successful clinical applications of these technologies, including the use of injectable adipose matrices for facial volume restoration and the development of self-growing heart valves for pediatric patients. He also discussed ongoing research at AIIMS Guwahati, focusing on developing cost-effective, scalable solutions tailored to the needs of the Indian healthcare system.
 
In conclusion, Prof. Puranik's insights at WALS 2025 underscored the significant strides being made in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. These advancements not only enhance patient outcomes but also pave the way for more personalized and effective medical treatments in the future.