Mimicking techniques in small diameter vascular grafts: enhancing design through multi-layered electrospinning techniques.

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of occlusive arterial diseases, such as peripheral arterial disease and coronary heart disease, underscores the critical need for effective vascular interventions. Traditional methods, including autologous vessel grafting, often fall short in the case of small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs), which present challenges such as thrombosis and limited long-term patency. This study reviews recent advancements in electrospinning techniques aimed at generating biomimetic SDVGs that closely replicate the structure and mechanical properties of natural blood vessels. By employing multi-layered electrospinning approaches, the review investigates strategies to enhance scaffold design, improve biocompatibility, and integrate bioactive components. The potential of novel drug delivery systems and advanced porogenic technologies is also explored, revealing a pathway to create next-generation electrospun vascular grafts that promise improved integration with host tissues and a substantial impact on cardiovascular therapies. This review highlights the ongoing efforts within the field of tissue engineering to address the pressing challenges associated with small-diameter vascular grafts, facilitating better patient outcomes, and expanding therapeutic options.