Custom Repair of Mandibular Bone Defects with 3D Printed Bioceramic Scaffolds

Study on mechanical properties of dual-channel cryogenic 3D printing scaffold for mandibular defect repair

Mandibular defect repair has always been a clinical challenge, facing technical bottleneck. The new materials directly affect technological breakthroughs in mandibular defect repair field. Our aim is to fabricate a scaffold of advanced biomaterials for repairing of small mandibular defect. Therefore, a novel dual-channel scaffold consisting of silk fibroin/collagen type-I/hydroxyapatite (SCH) and polycaprolactone/hydroxyapatite (PCL/HA) was fabricated by cryogenic 3D printing technology with double nozzles. The mechanical properties and behaviors of the dual-channel scaffold were investigated by performing uniaxial compression, creep, stress relaxation, and ratcheting experiments respectively. The experiments indicated that the dual-channel scaffold was typical non-linear viscoelastic consistent with cancellous tissue; the Young's modulus of this scaffold was 60.1 kPa. Finite element analysis (FEA) was employed performing a numerical simulation to evaluate the implantation effect in mandible. The stress distribution of the contact area between scaffold and defect was uniform, the maximum Mises stress of cortical bone and cancellous bone in defect area were 54.520 MPa and 3.196 MPa, and the maximum displacement of cortical bone and cancellous bone in defect area were 0.1575 mm and 0.1555 mm respectively, which distributed in the incisor region. The peak maximum Mises stress experienced by the implanted scaffold was 3.128 × 10-3 MPa, and the maximum displacement was 6.453 × 10-2 mm distributed near incisor area. The displacement distribution of the scaffold was consistent with that of cortical and cancellous bone. The scaffold recovered well when the force applied on it disappeared. Above all, the dual-channel scaffold had excellent bio-mechanical properties in implanting mandible, which provides a new idea for the reconstruction of irregular bone defects in the mandible and has good clinical development prospects.

Fullerol-reinforced antioxidantive 3D-printed bredigite scaffold for accelerating bone healing

Reactive oxygen species play a vital role in tissue repair, and nonequilibrium of redox homeostasis around bone defect can compromise osteogenesis. However, insufficient antioxidant capacity and weak osteogenic performance remain major obstacles for bone scaffold materials. Herein, integrating the mussel-inspired polydopamine (PDA) coating and 3D printing technologies, we utilized the merits of both osteogenic bredigite and antioxidative fullerol to construct 3D-printed porous, biodegradable acid-buffering, reactive oxygen species (ROS) -scavenging and robust osteogenic bio-scaffold (denoted "FPBS") for in situ bone defect restoration under oxidative stress microenvironment. Initially, fullerol nanoparticles were attached to the surface of the bredigite scaffold via covalently inter-crosslinking with PDA. Upon injury, extracellular ROS capturing triggered the oxidative degradation of PDA, releasing fullerol nanoparticles to enter into cells for further intracellular ROS scavenging. In vitro, FPBS had good biocompatibility and excellent antioxidative capability. Furthermore, FPBS promoted the osteogenesis of stem cells with significant elevation of osteogenic markers. Finally, in vivo implantation of FPBS remarkably enhanced new bone formation in a rat critical calvarial defect model. Overall, with amelioration of the ROS microenvironment of injured tissue and enhancement of osteogenic differentiation of stem cells simultaneously, FPBS may hold great potential towards bone defect repair.

Recent advances in additive manufacturing of patient-specific devices for dental and maxillofacial rehabilitation

OBJECTIVES

Customization and the production of patient-specific devices, tailoring the unique anatomy of each patient's jaw and facial structures, are the new frontiers in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. As a technological advancement, additive manufacturing has been applied to produce customized objects based on 3D computerized models. Therefore, this paper presents advances in additive manufacturing strategies for patient-specific devices in diverse dental specialties.

METHODS

This paper overviews current 3D printing techniques to fabricate dental and maxillofacial devices. Then, the most recent literature (2018-2023) available in scientific databases reporting advances in 3D-printed patient-specific devices for dental and maxillofacial applications is critically discussed, focusing on the major outcomes, material-related details, and potential clinical advantages.

RESULTS

The recent application of 3D-printed customized devices in oral prosthodontics, implantology and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, orthodontics, and endodontics are presented. Moreover, the potential application of 4D printing as an advanced manufacturing technology and the challenges and future perspectives for additive manufacturing in the dental and maxillofacial area are reported.

SIGNIFICANCE

Additive manufacturing techniques have been designed to benefit several areas of dentistry, and the technologies, materials, and devices continue to be optimized. Image-based and accurately printed patient-specific devices to replace, repair, and regenerate dental and maxillofacial structures hold significant potential to maximize the standard of care in dentistry.

3D-printed bredigite scaffolds with ordered arrangement structures promote bone regeneration by inducing macrophage polarization in onlay grafts

Bone tissue engineering scaffolds may provide a potential strategy for onlay bone grafts for oral implants. For determining the fate of scaffold biomaterials and osteogenesis effects, the host immune response is crucial. In the present study, bredigite (BRT) bioceramic scaffolds with an ordered arrangement structure (BRT-O) and a random morphology (BRT-R) were fabricated. The physicochemical properties of scaffolds were first characterized by scanning electron microscopy, mechanical test and micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, their osteogenic and immunomodulatory properties in an onlay grafting model were investigated. In vitro, the BRT-O scaffolds facilitated the macrophage polarization towards a pro-regenerative M2 phenotype, which subsequently facilitated the migration and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. In vivo, an onlay grafting model was successfully established in the cranium of rabbits. In addition, the BRT-O scaffolds grafted on rabbit cranium promoted bone regeneration and CD68 + CD206 + M2 macrophage polarization. In conclusion, the 3D-printed BRT-O scaffold presents as a promising scaffold biomaterial for onlay grafts by regulating the local immune microenvironment.

Appreciable biosafety, biocompatibility and osteogenic capability of 3D printed nonstoichiometric wollastonite scaffolds favorable for clinical translation

Background

Alveolar bone destruction due to periodontal disease often requires a bone graft substitute to reconstruct the anatomical structures and biological functions of the bone tissue. Despite significant advances in the development of foreign ion-doped nonstoichiometric wollastonite bioceramics (CaSiO3, nCSi) for alveolar bone regeneration over the past decade, the in vivo biosafety and osteogenesis of nCSi scaffolds remain uncertain. In this study, we developed a customized porous nCSi scaffold to investigate the in vivo biocompatibility and osteogenic properties of nCSi bioceramics.

Methods

Six percent Mg-doped nCSi bioceramic scaffolds were fabricated by digital light processing (DLP), and the scaffold morphology, pore architecture, compressive strength, in vitro biodegradation, and apatite-forming ability of the bioceramic scaffolds were investigated systematically. Subsequently, an alveolar bone defect rabbit model was used to evaluate the biocompatibility and osteogenic efficacy of the nCSi bioceramics. Animal weight, hematological test, blood biochemical test, wet weight of the main organs, and pathological examination of the main organs were conducted. Micro-CT and histological staining were performed to analyze the osteogenic potential of the personalized bioceramic scaffolds.

Results

The nCSi scaffolds exhibited appreciable initial compressive strength (>30 MPa) and mild mechanical decay over time during in vitro biodissolution. In addition, the scaffolds induced apatite remineralization in SBF. Bioceramic scaffolds have been proven to have good biocompatibility in vivo after implantation into the alveolar bone defect of rabbits. No significant effects on the hematological indices, blood biochemical parameters, organ wet weight, or organ histopathology were detected from 3 to 180 days postoperatively. The porous scaffolds exhibited strong bone regeneration capability in the alveolar bone defect model of rabbits. Micro-CT and histological examination showed effective maintenance of bone morphology in the bioceramic scaffold group; however, depressed bone tissue was observed in the control group.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that personalized nCSi bioceramic scaffolds can be fabricated using the DLP technique. These newly developed strong bioceramic scaffolds exhibit good biocompatibility and osteogenic capability in vivo and have excellent potential as next-generation oral implants.

The translational potential of this article

Tissue-engineered strategies for alveolar bone repair require a bone graft substitute with appreciable biocompatibility and osteogenic capability. This article provides a systematic investigation of the in vivo biosafety and osteogenic property of nCSi to further development of a silicate-based bioceramics materials for clinical applications.

Treatment of Progressive Hemifacial Atrophy by Cartilage Graft and Free Adipofascial Flap Combined with Three-Dimensional Planning

BACKGROUND

Progressive hemifacial atrophy (PHA) is a rare disease characterized by progressive atrophy of skin, soft tissue, muscles, and underlying bone structures. For severe PHA patients with obvious bone deformities, skeletal framework reconstruction is needed in addition to soft-tissue augmentation. The authors propose a new combinatorial surgical method using rib cartilage graft and free adipofascial flap for restoring facial symmetry. To improve the surgical accuracy, preoperative three-dimensional planning and printing was used.

METHODS

Twelve patients with severe facial atrophy were included in the authors' study. Three-dimensional facial image analyses were performed preoperatively to quantify the facial asymmetry. Rib cartilages were harvested and sculptured to the appropriate shape created by three-dimensional planning and fixed to the atrophic bone. The circumflex scapular artery-based adipofascial flap was transplanted to repair soft-tissue deficiency. A residual small monitor flap was left with the adipofascial flap. A revision surgery was performed to perfect the repair if the contour was suboptimal 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The adipofascial flaps survived in all 12 patients. All patients achieved good healing without complications. At 1 more year after surgery, the rib cartilage was still in position and rarely absorbed. The morphologic and volumetric difference between the affected side and the unaffected side was improved significantly postoperatively. All patients were satisfied with the results, and no more additional operations were required.

CONCLUSION

The combinatorial surgery of rib cartilage graft and free adipofascial flap in the setting of three-dimensional planning and printing can be a good choice in restoring facial symmetry in severe cases of PHA.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Computer-aided designed 3D-printed polymeric scaffolds for personalized reconstruction of maxillary and mandibular defects: a proof-of-concept study

PURPOSE

To investigate the potential reconstruction of complex maxillofacial defects using computer-aided design 3D-printed polymeric scaffolds by defining the production process, simulating the surgical procedure, and explore the feasibility and reproducibility of the whole algorithm.

METHODS

This a preclinical study to investigate feasibility, reproducibility and efficacy of the reconstruction algorithm proposed. It encompassed 3 phases: (1) scaffold production (CAD and 3D-printing in polylactic acid); (2) surgical simulation on cadaver heads (navigation-guided osteotomies and scaffold fixation); (3) assessment of reconstruction (bone and occlusal morphological conformance, symmetry, and mechanical stress tests).

RESULTS

Six cadaver heads were dissected. Six types of defects (3 mandibular and 3 maxillary) with different degree of complexity were tested. In all case the reconstruction algorithm could be successfully completed. Bone morphological conformance was optimal while the occlusal one was slightly higher. Mechanical stress tests were good (mean value, 318.6 and 286.4 N for maxillary and mandibular defects, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our reconstructive algorithm was feasible and reproducible in a preclinical setting. Functional and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory independently of the complexity of the defect.

The 3-dimensional printing for dental tissue regeneration: the state of the art and future challenges

Tooth loss or damage poses great threaten to oral and general health. While contemporary clinical treatments have enabled tooth restoration to a certain extent, achieving functional tooth regeneration remains a challenging task due to the intricate and hierarchically organized architecture of teeth. The past few decades have seen a rapid development of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, which has provided new breakthroughs in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative dentistry. This review outlined the bioactive materials and stem/progenitor cells used in dental regeneration, summarized recent advancements in the application of 3D printing technology for tooth and tooth-supporting tissue regeneration, including dental pulp, dentin, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and so on. It also discussed current obstacles and potential future directions, aiming to inspire innovative ideas and encourage further development in regenerative medicine.

Personalized 3D-Printed Scaffolds with Multiple Bioactivities for Bioroot Regeneration

Recent advances in 3D printing offer a prospective avenue for producing transplantable human tissues with complex geometries; however, the appropriate 3D-printed scaffolds possessing the biological compatibility for tooth regeneration remain unidentified. This study proposes a personalized scaffold of multiple bioactivities, including induction of stem cell proliferation and differentiation, biomimetic mineralization, and angiogenesis. A brand-new bioink system comprising a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer is developed and reinforced with extracellular matrix generated from dentin tissue (treated dentin matrix, TDM). Adding TDM optimizes physical properties including microstructure, hydrophilicity, and mechanical strength of the scaffolds. Proteomics analysis reveals that the released proteins of the 3D-printed TDM scaffolds relate to multiple biological processes and interact closely with each other. Additionally, 3D-printed TDM scaffolds establish a favorable microenvironment for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation in vitro. The 3D-printed TDM scaffolds are proangiogenic and facilitate whole-thickness vascularization of the graft in a subcutaneous model. Notably, the personalized TDM scaffold combined with dental follicle cells mimics the anatomy and physiology of the native tooth root three months after in situ transplantation in beagles. The remarkable in vitro and in vivo outcomes suggest that the 3D-printed TDM scaffolds have multiple bioactivities and immense clinical potential for tooth-loss therapy.

Customized Additive Manufacturing in Bone Scaffolds-The Gateway to Precise Bone Defect Treatment

In the advancing landscape of technology and novel material development, additive manufacturing (AM) is steadily making strides within the biomedical sector. Moving away from traditional, one-size-fits-all implant solutions, the advent of AM technology allows for patient-specific scaffolds that could improve integration and enhance wound healing. These scaffolds, meticulously designed with a myriad of geometries, mechanical properties, and biological responses, are made possible through the vast selection of materials and fabrication methods at our disposal. Recognizing the importance of precision in the treatment of bone defects, which display variability from macroscopic to microscopic scales in each case, a tailored treatment strategy is required. A patient-specific AM bone scaffold perfectly addresses this necessity. This review elucidates the pivotal role that customized AM bone scaffolds play in bone defect treatment, while offering comprehensive guidelines for their customization. This includes aspects such as bone defect imaging, material selection, topography design, and fabrication methodology. Additionally, we propose a cooperative model involving the patient, clinician, and engineer, thereby underscoring the interdisciplinary approach necessary for the effective design and clinical application of these customized AM bone scaffolds. This collaboration promises to usher in a new era of bioactive medical materials, responsive to individualized needs and capable of pushing boundaries in personalized medicine beyond those set by traditional medical materials.

Effect of different HA/β-TCP coated 3D printed bioceramic scaffolds on repairing large bone defects in rabbits

BACKGROUND

Treatment of large segmental bone defects is still a major clinical challenge, and bone grafting is the main method. The development of novel bone graft substitutes will help solve this problem.

METHODS

Porous bioceramics hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds coated with different ratios of HA/β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) were prepared by 3D printing. The scaffolds were sampled and tested in large segmental bone defect rabbit models. X-ray, micro-computed tomography (CT), hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, Van-Gieson staining, and type I collagen staining were performed to find the best scaffolds for large segmental bone defect treatment.

RESULTS

The average length, diameter, compressive strength, and porosity of the bioceramics scaffolds were 15.05 ± 0.10 mm, 4.98 ± 0.06 mm, 11.11 ± 0.77 MPa, and 54.26 ± 5.38%, respectively. Postoperative lateral radiographs suggested the scaffold group got better bone healing and stability than the blank group. Micro-CT showed new bones grew into the scaffold from the two ends of the fracture along the scaffold and finally achieved bony union. The new bone volume around the scaffolds suggested the 3:7 HA/β-TCP-coated bioceramic scaffolds were more favorable for the healing of large segmental bone defects. The results of HE, Van-Gieson, and type I collagen staining also suggested more new bone formation in 3:7 HA/β-TCP-coated bioceramic scaffolds.

CONCLUSION

3:7 HA/β-TCP-coated porous bioceramics scaffolds are more conducive to the repair of large bone defects in rabbits. The results of this study can provide some reference and theoretical support in this area.

Biofabrication of engineered dento-alveolar tissue

Oral health is essential for a good overall health. Dento-alveolar conditions have a high prevalence, ranging from tooth decay periodontitis to alveolar bone resorption. However, oral tissues exhibit a limited regenerative capacity, and full recovery is challenging. Therefore, regenerative therapies for dento-alveolar tissue (e.g., alveolar bone, periodontal membrane, dentin-pulp complex) have gained much attention, and novel approaches have been proposed in recent decades. This review focuses on the cells, biomaterials and the biofabrication methods used to develop therapies for tooth root bioengineering. Examples of the techniques covered are the multitude of additive manufacturing techniques and bioprinting approaches used to create scaffolds or tissue constructs. Furthermore, biomaterials and stem cells utilized during biofabrication will also be described for different target tissues. As these new therapies gradually become a reality in the lab, the translation to the clinic is still minute, with a further need to overcome multiple challenges and broaden the clinical application of these alternatives.

The practical process of manufacturing poly(methyl methacrylate)-based scaffolds having high porosity and high strength

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based scaffolds have been produced using the granule casting method with grain sizes M80-100 and M100-140. The novelty of this study was the application of the cold-cutting method (CCm) to reduce the PMMA granule size. PMMA granule shape, granule size (mesh), and sintering temperature were the primary variables in manufacturing PMMA scaffolds. CCm was applied to reduce the granule size of commercial PMMA, which was originally solid cylindrical, by lowering the temperature to 3.5 °C, 0 °C, and-8.3 °C. PMMA granules that had been reduced were sieved with mesh sizes M80-100 and M100-140. Green bodies were made by the granule casting method using an aluminum mold measuring 8 × 8 × 8 mm³. The sintering process was carried out at temperatures varying from 115 °C to 140 °C, a heating rate of 5 °C/min, and a holding time of 2 h, the cooling process was carried out in a furnace. The characterization of the PMMA-based scaffolds' properties was carried out by observing the microstructure with SEM, analyzing the distribution of pore sizes with ImageJ software, and testing the porosity, the phase, with XRD, and the compressive strength. The best results from the overall analysis were the M80-100 PMMA scaffold treated at a sintering temperature of 130 °C with compressive strength, porosity, and pore size distribution values of 8.2 MPa, 62.0%, and 121-399 μm, respectively, and the M100-140 one treated at a sintering temperature of 135 °C with compressive strength, porosity, and pore size distribution values of 12.1 MPa, 61.2%, and 140-366 μm, respectively. There were interconnected pores in the PMMA scaffolds, as evidenced by the SEM images. There was no PMMA phase change between before and after the sintering process.

Additive Manufacturing of Bioceramic Implants for Restoration Bone Engineering: Technologies, Advances, and Future Perspectives

Treating bone defects is highly challenging because they do not heal on their own inside the patients, so implants are needed to assist in the reconstruction of the bone. Bioceramic implants based on additive manufacturing (AM) are currently emerging as promising treatment options for restoration bone engineering. On the one hand, additively manufactured bioceramic implants have excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility, which are suitable for bone regeneration. On the other hand, the designable structure and adjustable pores of additively manufactured bioceramic implants allow them to promote suitable cell growth and tissue climbing. Herein, this review unfolds to introduce several frequently employed AM technologies for bioceramic implants. After that, advances in commonly used additively manufactured bioceramic implants, including bioinert ceramic implants, bioactive ceramic implants, and bioceramic/organic composite implants, are categorized and summarized. Finally, the future perspectives of additively manufactured bioceramic implants, in terms of mechanical performance improvement, innovative structural design, biological property enhancement, and other functionalization approaches, are proposed and forecasted. This review is believed to provide some fundamental understanding and cutting-edge knowledge for the additive manufacturing of bioceramic implants for restoration bone engineering.

Preliminary results of customized bone graft made by robocasting hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphates for oral surgery

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the mechanical characteristics and the clinical usefulness of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HA) bioblocks grafted in edentulous jaws of 12 patients.

METHODS

The scaffolds were produced by robocasting ceramic inks containing 80%/20% β-TCP and HA, respectively, with an overall porosity of 60%, with a macropore size between 300 and 500 μm. The mechanical performance of cylindrical vs conical specimens was compared using a universal testing machine. The clinical study was performed on 12 edentulous patients who received 4 cylindrical bone bioblocks. After 10 to 16 weeks of osseointegration, the bioblocks were explanted with trephine for histologic analysis by Goldner and Von Kossa staining.

RESULTS

Conical shapes were significantly stronger (96.4 ± 8.7 MPa) than cylindrical shapes (87.8 ± 12.2 MPa). The overall degree of porosity ranged from 53.4% to 58.1% in the coronal region to 62.5% to 66.9% at the apex. After the maturation period, 41 valid bioblocks (85.4%) were obtained for histologic study. Bone showing some cellularity was found in 68.4% of the samples, indicating biologically active bone, and adequate calcification was found in 31.7% of the samples. In terms of biomaterial degradation, 73.2% of the samples were completely resorbed or showed significant resorption.

CONCLUSIONS

The 80%/20% β-TCP and HA grafts customized by robocasting appear adequate for regenerating self-contained defects.

The 3D-Printed Ordered Bredigite Scaffold Promotes Pro-Healing of Critical-Sized Bone Defects by Regulating Macrophage Polarization

Background

Repairing critical-sized bone defects secondary to traumatic or tumorous damage is a complex conundrum in clinical practice; in this case, artificial scaffolds exhibited preferable outcomes. Bredigite (BRT, Ca₇MgSi₄O₁₆) bioceramic possesses excellent physicochemical properties and biological activity as a promising candidate for bone tissue engineering.

Methods

Structurally ordered BRT (BRT-O) scaffolds were fabricated by a three-dimensional (3D) printing technique, and the random BRT (BRT-R) scaffolds and clinically available β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffolds were compared as control groups. Their physicochemical properties were characterized, and RAW 264.7 cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), and rat cranial critical-sized bone defect models were utilized for evaluating macrophage polarization and bone regeneration.

Results

The BRT-O scaffolds exhibited regular morphology and homogeneous porosity. In addition, the BRT-O scaffolds released higher concentrations of ionic products based on coordinated biodegradability than the β-TCP scaffolds. In vitro, the BRT-O scaffolds facilitated RWA264.7 cells polarization to pro-healing M2 macrophage phenotype, whereas the BRT-R and β-TCP scaffolds stimulated more pro-inflammatory M1-type macrophages. A conditioned medium derived from macrophages seeding on the BRT-O scaffolds notably promoted the osteogenic lineage differentiation of BMSCs in vitro. The cell migration ability of BMSCs was significantly enhanced under the BRT-O-induced immune microenvironment. Moreover, in rat cranial critical-sized bone defect models, the BRT-O scaffolds group promoted new bone formation with a higher proportion of M2-type macrophage infiltration and expression of osteogenesis-related markers. Therefore, in vivo, BRT-O scaffolds play immunomodulatory roles in promoting critical-sized bone defects by enhancing the polarization of M2 macrophages.

Conclusion

3D-printed BRT-O scaffolds can be a promising option for bone tissue engineering, at least partly through macrophage polarization and osteoimmunomodulation.

Manufacturing hydroxyapatite scaffold from snapper scales with green phenolic granules as the space holder material

Hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffold was made using the powder metallurgy with an use of a space holder method with a pore-forming agent from green phenolic (GP) granules. The novelty of this study was the use of GP granules as an agent that does not melt at high temperatures to avoid damaging the tangential contact between the HA powder during the sintering process. HA from snapper scales was added and mixed with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and ethanol to form a slurry. The ethanol content was then removed by drying at room temperature. The HA, which contained PVA, was added with GP granules as a pore-forming agent in various amounts to get the desired porosity. The green body was made using a stainless steel mold with the uniaxial pressing process under a pressure of 100 MPa. To make a scaffold sintered body, a sintering process ran at 1200 °C with a holding time of 2 h while maintaining the heating and cooling rates at 5 °C/min. The physical properties of the scaffold sintered body were characterized through linear shrinkage test, pore measurement, porosity test, phase observation by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and microstructure observation by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and digital microscopy (DM). So were the mechanical ones through a compressive strength test. The results showed that the sintered body had a compressive strength value of 1.6 MPa at a porosity of 60.7% with a pore size of 129-394 μm. The scaffold contained interconnections between pores at a HA:GP ratio of 55:45 wt%, which matched the condition required for cell tissue growth. The conclusion is that GP granules are good enough to be used as a pore-making agent on scaffolds using the space holder method because they do not damage the tangential contact between the HA powder during the sintering process. However, efforts are needed to remove the remaining GP ash on the scaffold.

The Ability of Biodegradable Thermosensitive Hydrogel Composite Calcium-Silicon-Based Bioactive Bone Cement in Promoting Osteogenesis and Repairing Rabbit Distal Femoral Defects

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures are a global issue affecting the elderly population. To explore a new calcium silicate bone cement, polylactic acid (PLGA)–polyethylene glycol (PEG)–PLGA hydrogel was compounded with tricalcium silicate (C₃S)/dicalcium silicate (C₂S)/plaster of Paris (POP) to observe the hydration products and test physical and chemical properties. The cell compatibility and osteogenic capability were tested in vitro. The rabbit femoral condylar bone defect model was used to test its safety and effectiveness in vivo. The addition of hydrogel did not result in the formation of a new hydration product and significantly improved the injectability, anti-washout properties, and in vitro degradability of the bone cement. The cholecystokinin octapeptide-8 method showed significant proliferation of osteoblasts in bone cement. The Alizarin red staining and alkaline phosphatase activity test showed that the bone cement had a superior osteogenic property in vitro. The computed tomography scan and gross anatomy at 12 weeks after surgery in the rabbit revealed that PLGA-PEG-PLGA/C3S/C2S/POP was mostly degraded, with the formation of new bone trabeculae and calli at the external orifice of the defect. Thus, PLGA-PEG-PLGA/C₃S/C₂S/POP composite bone cement has a positive effect on bone repair and provides a new strategy for the clinical application of bone tissue engineering materials.

In Vivo Application of Silica-Derived Inks for Bone Tissue Engineering: A 10-Year Systematic Review

As the need for efficient, sustainable, customizable, handy and affordable substitute materials for bone repair is critical, this systematic review aimed to assess the use and outcomes of silica-derived inks to promote in vivo bone regeneration. An algorithmic selection of articles was performed following the PRISMA guidelines and PICO method. After the initial selection, 51 articles were included. Silicon in ink formulations was mostly found to be in either the native material, but associated with a secondary role, or to be a crucial additive element used to dope an existing material. The inks and materials presented here were essentially extrusion-based 3D-printed (80%), and, overall, the most investigated animal model was the rabbit (65%) with a femoral defect (51%). Quality (ARRIVE 2.0) and risk of bias (SYRCLE) assessments outlined that although a large majority of ARRIVE items were “reported”, most risks of bias were left “unclear” due to a lack of precise information. Almost all studies, despite a broad range of strategies and formulations, reported their silica-derived material to improve bone regeneration. The rising number of publications over the past few years highlights Si as a leverage element for bone tissue engineering to closely consider in the future.

Magnesium-Containing Silicate Bioceramic Degradable Intramedullary Nail for Bone Fractures

Intramedullary nails (INs) have significant advantages in rigid fracture fixation. Due to the stress shielding effect and lack of biological activity, traditional metal INs often lead to delay union or nonunion fracture healing. Undegradable metals also need to be removed by a second surgery, which will impose a potential risk to the patient. Current degradable biomaterials with low strength cannot be used in INs. Manufacturing high-strength biodegradable INs (BINs) is still a challenge. Here, we reported a novel high strength bioactive magnesium-containing silicate (CSi-Mg) BIN. This BIN is manufactured by using casting, freeze drying, and sintering techniques and has extremely high bending strength and stable internal and external structures. The manufacturing parameters were systematically studied, such as the paste component, freeze-drying process, and sintering process. This manufacturing method can be applied to various sizes of BINs. The CSi-Mg BIN also has good bioactivity and biodegradation properties. This novel bioactive BIN is expected to replace the traditional metal INs and become a more effective way of treating fractures.

Direct Ink Writing: A 3D Printing Technology for Diverse Materials

Additive manufacturing (AM) has gained significant attention due to its ability to drive technological development as a sustainable, flexible, and customizable manufacturing scheme. Among the various AM techniques, direct ink writing (DIW) has emerged as the most versatile 3D printing technique for the broadest range of materials. DIW allows printing of practically any material, as long as the precursor ink can be engineered to demonstrate appropriate rheological behavior. This technique acts as a unique pathway to introduce design freedom, multifunctionality, and stability simultaneously into its printed structures. Here, a comprehensive review of DIW of complex 3D structures from various materials, including polymers, ceramics, glass, cement, graphene, metals, and their combinations through multimaterial printing is presented. The review begins with an overview of the fundamentals of ink rheology, followed by an in-depth discussion of the various methods to tailor the ink for DIW of different classes of materials. Then, the diverse applications of DIW ranging from electronics to food to biomedical industries are discussed. Finally, the current challenges and limitations of this technique are highlighted, followed by its prospects as a guideline toward possible futuristic innovations.

A hierarchical vascularized engineered bone inspired by intramembranous ossification for mandibular regeneration

Mandibular defects caused by injuries, tumors, and infections are common and can severely affect mandibular function and the patient’s appearance. However, mandible reconstruction with a mandibular bionic structure remains challenging. Inspired by the process of intramembranous ossification in mandibular development, a hierarchical vascularized engineered bone consisting of angiogenesis and osteogenesis modules has been produced. Moreover, the hierarchical vascular network and bone structure generated by these hierarchical vascularized engineered bone modules match the particular anatomical structure of the mandible. The ultra-tough polyion complex has been used as the basic scaffold for hierarchical vascularized engineered bone for ensuring better reconstruction of mandible function. According to the results of in vivo experiments, the bone regenerated using hierarchical vascularized engineered bone is similar to the natural mandibular bone in terms of morphology and genomics. The sonic hedgehog signaling pathway is specifically activated in hierarchical vascularized engineered bone, indicating that the new bone in hierarchical vascularized engineered bone underwent a process of intramembranous ossification identical to that of mandible development. Thus, hierarchical vascularized engineered bone has a high potential for clinical application in mandibular defect reconstruction. Moreover, the concept based on developmental processes and bionic structures provides an effective strategy for tissue regeneration.

Comparison between hydroxyapatite and polycaprolactone in inducing osteogenic differentiation and augmenting maxillary bone regeneration in rats

Background

The selection of appropriate scaffold plays an important role in ensuring the success of bone regeneration. The use of scaffolds with different materials and their effect on the osteogenic performance of cells is not well studied and this can affect the selection of suitable scaffolds for transplantation. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the comparative ability of two different synthetic scaffolds, mainly hydroxyapatite (HA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds in promoting in vitro and in vivo bone regeneration.

Method

In vitro cell viability, morphology, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of MC3T3-E1 cells on HA and PCL scaffolds were determined in comparison to the accepted model outlined for two-dimensional systems. An in vivo study involving the transplantation of MC3T3-E1 cells with scaffolds into an artificial bone defect of 4 mm length and 1.5 mm depth in the rat's left maxilla was conducted. Three-dimensional analysis using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and immunohistochemistry analyses evaluation were performed after six weeks of transplantation.

Results

MC3T3-E1 cells on the HA scaffold showed the highest cell viability. The cell viability on both scaffolds decreased after 14 days of culture, which reflects the dominant occurrence of osteoblast differentiation. An early sign of osteoblast differentiation can be detected on the PCL scaffold. However, cells on the HA scaffold showed more prominent results with intense mineralized nodules and significantly (p < 0.05) high levels of ALP activity with prolonged osteoblast induction. Micro-CT and H&E analyses confirmed the in vitro results with bone formation were significantly (p < 0.05) greater in HA scaffold and was supported by IHC analysis which confirmed stronger expression of osteogenic markers ALP and osteocalcin.

Conclusion

Different scaffold materials of HA and PCL might have influenced the bone regeneration ability of MC3T3-E1. Regardless, in vitro and in vivo bone regeneration was better in the HA scaffold which indicates its great potential for application in bone regeneration.

3D-Printed Hydroxyapatite and Tricalcium Phosphates-Based Scaffolds for Alveolar Bone Regeneration in Animal Models: A Scoping Review

Three-dimensional-printed scaffolds have received greater attention as an attractive option compared to the conventional bone grafts for regeneration of alveolar bone defects. Hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphates have been used as biomaterials in the fabrication of 3D-printed scaffolds. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the potential of 3D-printed HA and calcium phosphates-based scaffolds on alveolar bone regeneration in animal models. The systematic search was conducted across four electronic databases: Ovid, Web of Science, PubMed and EBSCOHOST, based on PRISMA-ScR guidelines until November 2021. The inclusion criteria were: (i) animal models undergoing alveolar bone regenerative surgery, (ii) the intervention to regenerate or augment bone using 3D-printed hydroxyapatite or other calcium phosphate scaffolds and (iii) histological and microcomputed tomographic analyses of new bone formation and biological properties of 3D-printed hydroxyapatite or calcium phosphates. A total of ten studies were included in the review. All the studies showed promising results on new bone formation without any inflammatory reactions, regardless of the animal species. In conclusion, hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphates are feasible materials for 3D-printed scaffolds for alveolar bone regeneration and demonstrated bone regenerative potential in the oral cavity. However, further research is warranted to determine the scaffold material which mimics the gold standard of care for bone regeneration in the load-bearing areas, including the masticatory load of the oral cavity.

[Research progress of in-situ three dimensional bio-printing technology for repairing bone and cartilage injuries]

OBJECTIVE

To review the research progress of in-situ three dimensional (3D) bio-printing technology in the repair of bone and cartilage injuries.

METHODS

Literature on the application of in-situ 3D bio-printing technology to repair bone and cartilage injuries at home and abroad in recent years was reviewed, analyzed, and summarized.

RESULTS

As a new tissue engineering technology, in-situ 3D bio-printing technology is mainly applied to repair bone, cartilage, and skin tissue injuries. By combining biomaterials, bioactive substances, and cells, tissue is printed directly at the site of injury or defect. At present, the research on the technology mainly focuses on printing mode, bio-ink, and printing technology; the application research in the field of bone and cartilage mainly focuses on pre-vascularization, adjusting the composition of bio-ink, improving scaffold structure, printing technology, loading drugs, cells, and bioactive factors, so as to promote tissue injury repair.

CONCLUSION

Multiple animal experiments have confirmed that in-situ 3D bio-printing technology can construct bone and cartilage tissue grafts in a real-time, rapid, and minimally invasive manner. In the future, it is necessary to continue to develop bio-inks suitable for specific tissue grafts, as well as combine with robotics, fusion imaging, and computer-aided medicine to improve printing efficiency.

Clinically relevant preclinical animal models for testing novel cranio-maxillofacial bone 3D-printed biomaterials

Bone tissue engineering is a rapidly developing field with potential for the regeneration of craniomaxillofacial (CMF) bones, with 3D printing being a suitable fabrication tool for patient-specific implants. The CMF region includes a variety of different bones with distinct functions. The clinical implementation of tissue engineering concepts is currently poor, likely due to multiple reasons including the complexity of the CMF anatomy and biology, and the limited relevance of the currently used preclinical models. The 'recapitulation of a human disease' is a core requisite of preclinical animal models, but this aspect is often neglected, with a vast majority of studies failing to identify the specific clinical indication they are targeting and/or the rationale for choosing one animal model over another. Currently, there are no suitable guidelines that propose the most appropriate animal model to address a specific CMF pathology and no standards are established to test the efficacy of biomaterials or tissue engineered constructs in the CMF field. This review reports the current clinical scenario of CMF reconstruction, then discusses the numerous limitations of currently used preclinical animal models employed for validating 3D-printed tissue engineered constructs and the need to reduce animal work that does not address a specific clinical question. We will highlight critical research aspects to consider, to pave a clinically driven path for the development of new tissue engineered materials for CMF reconstruction.

Prefabricated 3D-Printed Tissue-Engineered Bone for Mandibular Reconstruction: A Preclinical Translational Study in Primate

The advent of three dimensionally (3D) printed customized bone grafts using different biomaterials has enabled repairs of complex bone defects in various in vivo models. However, studies related to their clinical translations are truly limited. Herein, 3D printed poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/β-tricalcium phosphate (PLGA/TCP) and TCP scaffolds with or without recombinant bone morphogenetic protein −2 (rhBMP-2) coating were utilized to repair primate’s large-volume mandibular defects and compared efficacy of prefabricated tissue-engineered bone (PTEB) over direct implantation (without prefabrication). ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT was explored for real-time monitoring of bone regeneration and vascularization. After 3-month’s prefabrication, the original 3D-architecture of the PLGA/TCP-BMP scaffold was found to be completely lost, while it was properly maintained in TCP-BMP scaffolds. Besides, there was a remarkable decrease in the PLGA/TCP-BMP scaffold density and increase in TCP-BMP scaffolds density during ectopic (within latissimus dorsi muscle) and orthotopic (within mandibular defect) implantation, indicating regular bone formation with TCP-BMP scaffolds. Notably, PTEB based on TCP-BMP scaffold was successfully fabricated with pronounced effects on bone regeneration and vascularization based on radiographic, ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT, and histological evaluation, suggesting a promising approach toward clinical translation.

3D-printed, bioactive ceramic scaffold with rhBMP-2 in treating critical femoral bone defects in rabbits using the induced membrane technique

Although autogenous bone grafts are an optimal filling material for the induced membrane technique, limited availability and complications at the harvest site have created a need for alternative graft materials. We aimed to investigate the effect of an rhBMP-2-coated, 3D-printed, macro/microporous CaO-SiO2 -P2 O5 -B2 O3 bioactive ceramic scaffold in the treatment of critical femoral bone defects in rabbits using the induced membrane technique. A 15-mm segmental bone defect was made in the metadiaphyseal area of the distal femur of 14 rabbits. The defect was filled with polymethylmethacrylate cement and stabilized with a 2.0 mm locking plate. After the membrane matured for 4 weeks, the scaffold was implanted in two randomized groups: Group A (3D-printed bioceramic scaffold) and Group B (3D-printed, bioceramic scaffold with rhBMP-2). Eight weeks after implantation, the radiographic assessment showed that the healing rate of the defect was significantly higher in Group B (7/7, 100%) than in Group A (2/7, 29%). The mean volume of new bone formation around and inside the scaffold doubled in Group B compared to that in Group A. The mean static and dynamic stiffness were significantly higher in Group B. Histological examination revealed newly formed bone in both groups. Extensive cortical bone formation along the scaffold was found in Group B. Successful bone reconstruction in critical-sized bone defects could be obtained using rhBMP-2-coated, 3D-printed, macro/microporous bioactive ceramic scaffolds. This grafting material demonstrated potential as an alternative graft material in the induced membrane technique for reconstructing critical-sized bone defects.

Increased Osteogenic Activity of Dynamic Cultured Composite Bone Scaffolds: Characterization and In Vitro Study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP)/polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds, with 2 different ratios (50/50% and 65/35%), using 3-dimensionally (3D) printed dissolvable molds, and to evaluate cellular growth and osteogenic differentiation of both groups seeded with porcine bone marrow stem cells (pBMSCs) under dynamic culture in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two different groups of scaffolds were produced: group 1 (n = 40) with a ratio (wt%) of 50/50% and group 2 (n = 40) with 65/35% of β-TCP/PCL. Physicochemical, morphological, and mechanical characterization of the scaffolds were performed. Scaffolds were seeded with pBMSCs and differentiated osteogenically in dynamic culture. Cell density, distribution, and viability were assessed. Osteogenic differentiation was examined through alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, immunofluorescence, and photospectrometry.

RESULTS

Osteogenic differentiated constructs showed homogenous and viable cell distribution. Cell density was significantly higher (P < .05) for 65/35% scaffolds at 10 days postseeding, whereas at 6 weeks, cell number equalized for both groups. ALP activity increased over time and was significantly higher (P < .05) for 65/35% scaffolds at 14 days postseeding.

CONCLUSIONS

The mechanical properties of the developed 65/35% scaffolds were within the range of natural trabecular bone. Moreover, the 65/35% scaffolds showed biological advantages, such as higher cell growth and higher ALP activity.

Innovations in Craniofacial Bone and Periodontal Tissue Engineering - From Electrospinning to Converged Biofabrication

From a materials perspective, the pillars for the development of clinically translatable scaffold-based strategies for craniomaxillofacial (CMF) bone and periodontal regeneration have included electrospinning and 3D printing (biofabrication) technologies. Here, we offer a detailed analysis of the latest innovations in 3D (bio)printing strategies for CMF bone and periodontal regeneration and provide future directions envisioning the development of advanced 3D architectures for successful clinical translation. First, the principles of electrospinning applied to the generation of biodegradable scaffolds are discussed. Next, we present on extrusion-based 3D printing technologies with a focus on creating scaffolds with improved regenerative capacity. In addition, we offer a critical appraisal on 3D (bio)printing and multitechnology convergence to enable the reconstruction of CMF bones and periodontal tissues. As a future outlook, we highlight future directions associated with the utilization of complementary biomaterials and (bio)fabrication technologies for effective translation of personalized and functional scaffolds into the clinics.

Printing New Bones: From Print-and-Implant Devices to Bioprinted Bone Organ Precursors

Regenerating large bone defects remains a significant clinical challenge, motivating increased interest in additive manufacturing and 3D bioprinting to engineer superior bone graft substitutes. 3D bioprinting enables different biomaterials, cell types, and growth factors to be combined to develop patient-specific implants capable of directing functional bone regeneration. Current approaches to bioprinting such implants fall into one of two categories, each with their own advantages and limitations. First are those that can be 3D bioprinted and then directly implanted into the body and second those that require further in vitro culture after bioprinting to engineer more mature tissues prior to implantation. This review covers the key concepts, challenges, and applications of both strategies to regenerate damaged and diseased bone.

Main 3D Manufacturing Techniques for Customized Bone Substitutes. A Systematic Review

Clinicians should be aware of the main methods and materials to face the challenge of bone shortage by manufacturing customized grafts, in order to repair defects. This study aims to carry out a bibliographic review of the existing methods to manufacture customized bone scaffolds through 3D technology and to identify their current situation based on the published papers. A literature search was carried out using "3D scaffold", "bone regeneration", "robocasting" and "3D printing" as descriptors. This search strategy was performed on PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus and Cochrane Library, but also by hand search in relevant journals and throughout the selected papers. All the papers focusing on techniques for manufacturing customized bone scaffolds were reviewed. The 62 articles identified described 14 techniques (4 subtraction + 10 addition techniques). Scaffold fabrication techniques can be also be classified according to the time at which they are developed, into Conventional techniques and Solid Freeform Fabrication techniques. The conventional techniques are unable to control the architecture of the pore and the pore interconnection. However, current Solid Freeform Fabrication techniques allow individualizing and generating complex geometries of porosity. To conclude, currently SLA (Stereolithography), Robocasting and FDM (Fused deposition modeling) are promising options in customized bone regeneration.

Three-Dimensional Engineered Peripheral Nerve: Toward a New Era of Patient-Specific Nerve Repair Solutions

Reconstruction of peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) with substance loss remains challenging because of limited treatment solutions and unsatisfactory patient outcomes. Currently, nerve autografting is the first-line management choice for bridging critical-sized nerve defects. The procedure, however, is often complicated by donor site morbidity and paucity of nerve tissue, raising a quest for better alternatives. The application of other treatment surrogates, such as nerve guides, remains questionable, and it is inefficient in irreducible nerve gaps. More importantly, these strategies lack customization for personalized patient therapy, which is a significant drawback of these nerve repair options. This negatively impacts the fascicle-to-fascicle regeneration process, critical to restoring the physiological axonal pathway of the disrupted nerve. Recently, the use of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies has offered major advancements to the bioengineering solutions for PNI therapy. These techniques aim at reinstating the native nerve fascicle pathway using biomimetic approaches, thereby augmenting end-organ innervation. AM-based approaches, such as three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting, are capable of biofabricating 3D-engineered nerve graft scaffolds in a patient-specific manner with high precision. Moreover, realistic in vitro models of peripheral nerve tissues that represent the physiologically and functionally relevant environment of human organs could also be developed. However, the technology is still nascent and faces major translational hurdles. In this review, we spotlighted the clinical burden of PNIs and most up-to-date treatment to address nerve gaps. Next, a summarized illustration of the nerve ultrastructure that guides research solutions is discussed. This is followed by a contrast of the existing bioengineering strategies used to repair peripheral nerve discontinuities. In addition, we elaborated on the most recent advances in 3D printing and biofabrication applications in peripheral nerve modeling and engineering. Finally, the major challenges that limit the evolution of the field along with their possible solutions are also critically analyzed.

Tuning filament composition and microstructure of 3D-printed bioceramic scaffolds facilitate bone defect regeneration and repair

It is still a challenge to optimize the component distribution and microporous structures in scaffolds for tailoring biodegradation (ion releasing) and enhancing bone defect repair within an expected time stage. Herein, the core–shell-typed nonstoichiometric wollastonite (4% and 10% Mg-doping calcium silicate; CSiMg4, CSiMg10) macroporous scaffolds with microporous shells (adding ∼10 μm PS microspheres into shell-layer slurry) were fabricated via 3D printing. The initial mechanical properties and bio-dissolution (ion releasing) in vitro, and osteogenic capacity in vivo of the bioceramic scaffolds were evaluated systematically. It was shown that endowing high-density micropores in the sparingly dissolvable CSiMg10 or dissolvable CSiMg4 shell layer inevitably led to nearly 30% reduction of compressive strength, but such micropores could readily tune the ion release behaviour of the scaffolds (CSiMg4@CSiMg10 vs. CSiMg4@CSiMg10-p; CSiMg10@CSiMg4 vs. CSiMg10@CSiMg4-p). Based on the in rabbit femoral bone defect repair model, the 3D μCT reconstruction and histological observation demonstrated that the CSiMg4@CSiMg10-p scaffolds displayed markedly higher osteogenic capability than the other scaffolds after 12 weeks of implantation. It demonstrated that core–shell bioceramic 3D printing technique can be developed to fabricate single-phase or biphasic bioactive ceramic scaffolds with accurately tailored filament biodegradation for promoting bone defect regeneration and repair in some specific pathological conditions.

Additive Manufacturing of Material Scaffolds for Bone Regeneration: Toward Application in the Clinics

Additive manufacturing (AM) allows the fabrication of customized bone scaffolds in terms of shape, pore size, material type and mechanical properties. Combined with the possibility to obtain a precise 3D image of the bone defects using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, it is now possible to manufacture implants for patient-specific bone regeneration. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art of the different materials and AM techniques used for the fabrication of 3D-printed scaffolds in the field of bone tissue engineering. Their advantages and drawbacks are highlighted. For materials, specific criteria, were extracted from a literature study: biomimetism to native bone, mechanical properties, biodegradability, ability to be imaged (implantation and follow-up period), histological performances and sterilization process. AM techniques can be classified in three major categories: extrusion-based, powder-based and liquid-base. Their price, ease of use and space requirement are analyzed. Different combinations of materials/AM techniques appear to be the most relevant depending on the targeted clinical applications (implantation site, presence of mechanical constraints, temporary or permanent implant). Finally, some barriers impeding the translation to human clinics are identified, notably the sterilization process.

Biodegradable intramedullary nail (BIN) with high-strength bioceramics for bone fracture

About 10 million fractures occur worldwide each year, of which more than 60% are long bone fractures. It is generally agreed that intramedullary nails have significant advantages in rigid fracture fixation. Metal intramedullary nails (INs) can provide strong support but a stress shielding effect can occur that results in nonunion healing in clinic. Nondegradable metals also need to be removed by a second operation. Could INs be biodegradable and used to overcome this issue? As current degradable biomaterials always suffer from low strength and cannot be used in Ins, herein, we report a novel device consisting of biodegradable IN (BIN) made for the first time with bioceramics. These BINs have an extremely high bending strength and stable internal and external structure. Experiments show that the BINs could not only fix and support the tibial fracture model, but also promote osteogenesis and affect the microenvironment of the bone marrow cavity. Therefore, they could be expected to replace traditional metal IN and become a more effective treatment option for tibial fractures.

Use of artificial intelligence to recover mandibular morphology after disease

Mandibular tumors and radical oral cancer surgery often cause bone dysmorphia and defects. Most patients present with noticeable mandibular deformations, and doctors often have difficulty determining their exact mandibular morphology. In this study, a deep convolutional generative adversarial network (DCGAN) called CTGAN is proposed to complete 3D mandibular cone beam computed tomography data from CT data. After extensive training, CTGAN was tested on 6 mandibular tumor cases, resulting in 3D virtual mandibular completion. We found that CTGAN can generate mandibles with different levels and rich morphology, including positional and angular changes and local patterns. The completion results are shown as tomographic images combining generated and natural areas. The 3D generated mandibles have the anatomical morphology of the real mandibles and transition smoothly to the portions without disease, showing that CTGAN constructs mandibles with the expected patient characteristics and is suitable for mandibular morphological completion. The presented modeling principles can be applied to other areas for 3D morphological completion from medical images.

Clinical trial registration: This study is not a clinical trial. Patient data were only used for testing in a virtual environment. The use of the digital data used in this study was ethically approved.

3D bioprinting and craniofacial regeneration

BACKGROUND

Considering the structural and functional complexity of the craniofacial tissues, 3D bioprinting can be a valuable tool to design and create functional 3D tissues or organs in situ for in vivo applications. This review aims to explore the various aspects of this emerging 3D bioprinting technology and its application in the craniofacial bone or cartilage regeneration.

METHOD

Electronic database searches were undertaken on pubmed, google scholar, medline, embase, and science direct for english language literature, published for 3D bioprinting in craniofacial regeneration. The search items used were 'craniofacial regeneration' OR 'jaw regeneration' OR 'maxillofacial regeneration' AND '3D bioprinting' OR 'three dimensional bioprinting' OR 'Additive manufacturing' OR 'rapid prototyping' OR 'patient specific bioprinting'. Reviews and duplicates were excluded.

RESULTS

Search with above described criteria yielded 476 articles, which reduced to 108 after excluding reviews. Further screening of individual articles led to 77 articles to which 9 additional articles were included from references, and 18 duplicate articles were excluded. Finally we were left with 68 articles to be included in the review.

CONCLUSION

Craniofacial tissue and organ regeneration has been reported a success using bioink with different biomaterial and incorporated stem cells in 3D bioprinters. Though several attempts have been made to fabricate craniofacial bone and cartilage, the strive to achieve desired outcome still continues.

Biphasic ceramic biomaterials with tunable spatiotemporal evolution for highly efficient alveolar bone repair

Alveolar bone defects, which are characterized by a relatively narrow space and location adjacent to the cementum, require promising substitute biomaterials for their regeneration. In this study, we introduced novel yolk-shell biphasic bio-ceramic granules with/without a customized porous shell and evaluated their biological effect together with structural transformation. Firstly, a self-made coaxial bilayer capillary system was applied for the fabrication of granules. Secondly, thorough morphological and physicochemical characterizations were performed in vitro. Subsequently, the granules were implanted into critical-size alveolar bone defects (10 × 4 × 3 mm) in New Zealand white rabbits, with Bio-Oss® as the positive control. Finally, at 2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks postoperatively, the alveolar bone specimens were harvested and assessed via radiological and histological examination. Our results showed that the yolk-shell biphasic bio-ceramic granules, especially those with porous shells, exhibited a tunable ion release performance, improved biodegradation behavior and satisfactory osteogenesis compared with the homogeneously hybrid and Bio-Oss® granules both in vitro and in vivo. This study provides the first evidence that novel yolk-shell bio-ceramic granules, on account of their adjustable porous microstructure, have great potential in alveolar bone repair.

The Impact of Bioceramic Scaffolds on Bone Regeneration in Preclinical In Vivo Studies: A Systematic Review

Bioceramic scaffolds are appealing for alveolar bone regeneration, because they are emerging as promising alternatives to autogenous and heterogenous bone grafts. The aim of this systematic review is to answer to the focal question: in critical-sized bone defects in experimental animal models, does the use of a bioceramic scaffolds improve new bone formation, compared with leaving the empty defect without grafting materials or using autogenous bone or deproteinized bovine-derived bone substitutes? Electronic databases were searched using specific search terms. A hand search was also undertaken. Only randomized and controlled studies in the English language, published in peer-reviewed journals between 2013 and 2018, using critical-sized bone defect models in non-medically compromised animals, were considered. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the SYRCLE tool. A meta-analysis was planned to synthesize the evidence, if possible. Thirteen studies reporting on small animal models (six studies on rats and seven on rabbits) were included. The calvarial bone defect was the most common experimental site. The empty defect was used as the only control in all studies except one. In all studies the bioceramic materials demonstrated a trend for better outcomes compared to an empty control. Due to heterogeneity in protocols and outcomes among the included studies, no meta-analysis could be performed. Bioceramics can be considered promising grafting materials, though further evidence is needed.

Evaluation of BMP-2 and VEGF loaded 3D printed hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds with enhanced osteogenic capacity in vitro and in vivo

Large-sized bone defect repair is a challenging task in orthopedic surgery. Porous scaffolds with controlled release of growth factors have been investigated for many years. In this study, a hydroxyapatite composite scaffold was prepared by 3D printing at low temperature and coating with layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly. Bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP-2) and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) were loaded into the composite scaffolds. The release of dual growth factors was analyzed in vitro. The cell growth and osteogenic differentiation were assessed by culturing MC3T3-E1 cells onto the scaffolds. In an established rabbit model of critical-sized calvarial defect (15 mm in diameter), the osteogenic and angiogenic properties after implantation of scaffolds were evaluated by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and stained sections. Our results showed that the scaffolds possessed well-designed porous structure and could release two growth factors in a sustained way. The micro-CT analysis showed that the scaffolds with BMP-2/VEGF could accelerate new bone formation. Findings of immunochemical staining of collagen type I and lectin indicated that better osteogenic and angiogenic properties induced by BMP-2 and VEGF. These results suggested that the novel composite scaffolds combined with BMP-2/VEGF had both osteogenic and angiogenic abilities which could enhance new bone formation with good quality. Thus, the combination of 3D printed scaffolds loaded with BMP-2/VEGF might provide a potential solution for bone repair and regeneration in clinical applications.

Characterization of a composite polylactic acid-hydroxyapatite 3D-printing filament for bone-regeneration

Autologous cancellous-bone grafts are the current gold standard for therapeutic interventions in which bone-regeneration is desired. The main limitations of these implants are the need for a secondary surgical site, creating a wound on the patient, the limited availability of harvest-safe bone, and the lack of structural integrity of the grafts. Synthetic, resorbable, bone-regeneration materials could pose a viable treatment alternative, that could be implemented through 3D-printing. We present here the development of a polylactic acid-hydroxyapatite (PLA-HAp) composite that can be processed through a commercial-grade 3D-printer. We have shown that this material could be a viable option for the development of therapeutic implants for bone regeneration. Biocompatibility in vitro was demonstrated through cell viability studies using the osteoblastic MG63 cell-line, and we have also provided evidence that the presence of HAp in the polymer matrix enhances cell attachment and osteogenicity of the material. We have also provided guidelines for the optimal PLA-HAp ratio for this application, as well as further characterisation of the mechanical and thermal properties of the composite. This study encompasses the base for further research on the possibilities and safety of 3D-printable, polymer-based, resorbable composites for bone regeneration.

Recent Development in the Fabrication of Collagen Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications: A Review

Tissue engineering focuses on developing biological substitutes to restore, maintain or improve tissue functions. The three main components of its application are scaffold, cell and growthstimulating signals. Scaffolds composed of biomaterials mainly function as the structural support for ex vivo cells to attach and proliferate. They also provide physical, mechanical and biochemical cues for the differentiation of cells before transferring to the in vivo site. Collagen has been long used in various clinical applications, including drug delivery. The wide usage of collagen in the clinical field can be attributed to its abundance in nature, biocompatibility, low antigenicity and biodegradability. In addition, the high tensile strength and fibril-forming ability of collagen enable its fabrication into various forms, such as sheet/membrane, sponge, hydrogel, beads, nanofibre and nanoparticle, and as a coating material. The wide option of fabrication technology together with the excellent biological and physicochemical characteristics of collagen has stimulated the use of collagen scaffolds in various tissue engineering applications. This review describes the fabrication methods used to produce various forms of scaffolds used in tissue engineering applications.

Melt electrohydrodynamic 3D printed poly (ε-caprolactone)/polyethylene glycol/roxithromycin scaffold as a potential anti-infective implant in bone repair

Implanted scaffold or bone substitute is a common method to treat bone defects. However, the possible bone infection caused by orthopaedic surgery has created a challenging clinical problem and generally invalidate bone repair and regeneration. In this study, a poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL)/polyethylene glycol (PEG)/roxithromycin (ROX) composite scaffold was prepared via melt electrohydrodynamic (EHD) 3D printing. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy was performed to verify the existence of PEG and ROX in the scaffolds. By water contact angle measurement, the addition of both PEG and ROX was found to improve the hydrophilicity of the scaffolds. By in vitro drug release assay, the PCL/PEG/ROX scaffolds showed an initial burst drug release and subsequent long-term sustained release behaviour, which is favourable for the prevention and treatment of bone infections. The antibacterial assays against E. coli and S. aureus demonstrated that the composite scaffold with ROX possessed effective antibacterial activity, especially for S. aureus, the main cause of bone infection. The immunostaining and MTT assay with human osteoblast-like cells (MG63) indicated that cells showed good viability and growth on the scaffolds. Therefore, the melt EHD 3D printed PCL/PEG/ROX scaffold could be a promising anti-infective implant for bone tissue engineering.

Effect of strontium-containing on the properties of Mg-doped wollastonite bioceramic scaffolds

BACKGROUND

Bone scaffold is one of the most effective methods to treat bone defect. The ideal scaffold of bone tissue should not only provide space for bone tissue growth, but also have sufficient mechanical strength to support the bone defect area. Moreover, the scaffold should provide a customized size or shape for the patient's bone defect.

METHODS

In this study, strontium-containing Mg-doped wollastonite (Sr-CSM) bioceramic scaffolds with controllable pore size and pore structure were manufactured by direct ink writing 3D printing. Biological properties of Sr-CSM scaffolds were evaluated by apatite formation ability, in vitro proliferation ability of rabbit bone-marrow stem cells (rBMSCs), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity using β-TCP and Mg-doped wollastonite (CSM) scaffolds as control. The compression strength of three scaffold specimens was probed after completely drying them while been submerged in Tris-HCl solution for 0, 2,4 and 6 weeks.

RESULTS

The mechanical test results showed that strontium-containing Mg-doped wollastonite (Sr-CSM) scaffolds had acceptable initial compression strength (56 MPa) and maintained good mechanical stability during degradation in vitro. Biological experiments showed that Sr-CSM scaffolds had a better apatite formation ability. Cell experiments showed that Sr-CSM scaffold had a higher cell proliferation ability compared with β-TCP and CSM scaffold. The higher ALP activity of Sr-CSM scaffold indicates that it can better stimulate osteoblastic differentiation and bone mineralization.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, Sr-CSM scaffolds not only have acceptable compression strength, but also have higher osteogenesis bioactivity, which can be used in bone tissue engineering scaffolds.