Fat Processing Techniques: A Narrative Review

Objective This study reviewed the literature regarding different fat processing techniques, in order to update the information for healthcare personnel and provide the latest evidence in selecting purification methods. Methods PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were comprehensively searched to identify studies that compared different fat purification methods for animal and human studies published through July 2020. Papers were screened using inclusion and exclusion criteria, and relative data were collected for review. Results A total of 3292 studies were identified, of which 30 were included for review. The findings of existing clinical studies showed that the filtration and washing filtration methods performed better in the volume retention rate of adipose tissue. In terms of postoperative complications (fat necrosis, nodules, cysts, etc.), the incidence of complications of centrifugation is generally higher than that of other purification methods, while Telfa gauze and washing filtration system show better safety. More comparative studies are needed to draw conclusions about clinical efficacy and satisfaction. The existing basic science studies generally believe that centrifugation has no advantage in the integrity and metabolic activity of adipose tissue. However, there is no definite conclusion about the volume retention rate of grafts in animal experiments. Conclusion In recent years, studies on the cost-effectiveness of various purification methods have emerged, and the efficiency advantages of commercial systems have also been gradually reflected. In the future, the purification efficiency will be improved based on ensuring clinical efficacy, which will be translated into cost savings.