Introduction: Congenital abnormalities in the reproductive system of women can lead to serious problems in the health and quality of life of patients. These abnormalities include problems such as vaginal agenesis, bicornuate uterus, and other structural abnormalities that may lead to infertility and psychological problems. Tissue engineering, as a new technology, has a high potential to provide new and effectsolutions in the treatment of these abnormalities. Using cells, biomaterials and biological agents, this technology creates new tissue structures that can replace damaged or defective tissues.
The aim of this study is to systematically review the available articles on the use of tissue engineering for the treatment of congenital anomalies in the female reproductive system.
Methods: This research has been done as a systematic review.
Studies published in the period from 2000 to 2022 that investigated the use of tissue engineering for the treatment of congenital anomalies in the female reproductive system.
Data were collected by searching scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Search keywords included "tissue engineering", "congenital malformations", "female reproductive system" and "stem cells".
Studies that investigated the use of tissue engineering methods for the treatment of congenital anomalies in the reproductive system of women and had valid methodologies have been reviewed. Irrelevant articles, low quality studies and invalid articles were excluded from the review.
The collected data have been reviewed and analyzed using the methods of content analysis and qualitative meta-analysis.
Results: The results of the review showed that tissue engineering has been used mainly to treat abnormalities such as vaginal agenesis, bifurcated uterus and structural defects in the vaginal wall.
Various methods including the use of stem cells, biological biomaterials such as collagen and biodegradable polymers, and controlled drug delivery systems have been used in the treatment of these abnormalities. Also, 3D printing techniques have been used to create complex textured structures.
Clinical and preclinical studies have shown that the use of tissue engineering can have positive results in the reconstruction and improvement of the function of female reproductive tissues. In some cases, a significant improvement in the quality of life of patients and a reduction in the symptoms of abnormalities have been observed.
Conclusion: This systematic review study showed that tissue engineering as a new technology has a high potential for the treatment of congenital abnormalities in the female reproductive system. Different methods of tissue engineering, including the use of stem cells and biomaterials, can help to regenerate and improve the function of reproductive tissues. However, to improve and expand the use of this technology, there is a need for further research and development of practical solutions.