3D Printed Bone Scaffolds Using Biologically-Derived Powder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bone-regeneration scaffolds face challenges in providing both osteogenic properties and structural strength necessary for load-bearing applications, as ceramic materials like β-TCP are brittle, while polymeric biomaterials like PCL lack osteoconduction and osteoinduction.
Innovation Solution
The development of bone-regeneration scaffolds composed of biologically-derived bone powder, prepared from human or animal bones, using a 3D printing method that incorporates a slurry formulation with a photoinitiator, dispersant, and monomer, which are then fabricated into patient-specific structures with a gyroid structure and perfusion channels to enhance tissue growth and vascularization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ceramic materials like β-TCP are used for bone-regeneration scaffolds, then osteogenic properties (osteoinduction, osteoconduction, osteointegration) are improved, but structural strength and mechanical support are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines biologically-derived bone powder (containing osteogenic ceramic components) with biocompatible polymeric binder materials to create a composite printing material. This composite approach allows the scaffold to simultaneously achieve excellent osteogenic properties from the bone powder and adequate mechanical strength from the polymer matrix, resolving the contradiction between bioactivity and structural integrity
2Strength
If polymeric biomaterials like PCL are used for bone-regeneration scaffolds, then mechanical strength and structural support are improved, but osteoconduction and osteoinduction are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent formulates a composite printing material where biocompatible polymers provide the mechanical framework while biologically-derived bone powder particles provide the osteogenic surface properties. The bone powder contains ceramic components that enable osteoconduction and osteoinduction, while the polymer matrix provides structural support, thus resolving the contradiction between mechanical strength and osteogenic functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If 3D printing is used to fabricate patient-specific scaffolds with complex structures, then customization and perfusion channel integration are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes 3D printing technology to vary structural parameters (porosity, channel diameter, wall thickness, gyroid lattice spacing) across different regions of the scaffold based on patient-specific anatomical requirements. This parametric design approach enables customization of perfusion channels and structural properties without requiring complex assembly procedures, as the entire customized structure is fabricated in a single additive manufacturing process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The scaffolds achieve a balance of osteogenic properties and structural strength, enabling effective bone regeneration and load-bearing capabilities while degrading naturally into endogenous bone, facilitating complete bone healing and removal of fixation.
Implementation Method 1
a slurry formulation with a photoinitiator, dispersant, and monomer, which are then fabricated into patient-specific structures
Data Source
AI summary
A method for fabricating a bone-regeneration scaffold may include providing a printing material including a biologically-derived bone powder, and fabricating, via a 3D printer, the bone-regeneration scaffold using the printing material.