Cryopreserved fibroblast sheets reduce esophageal leakage risk

Cryopreserved allogeneic multilayered fibroblast sheets demonstrated efficacy in preventing esophageal anastomotic leakage in a rat model. The incidence of leakage was significantly lower in the fibroblast sheets group (28%) compared to controls (61%; p = .02). Additionally, the burst pressure was notably higher in the sheet group (124 ± 30 mm Hg) versus controls (78 ± 26 mm Hg; p < .01), along with increased collagen content, indicating their potential role in enhancing postoperative healing.