Elastomeric degradable biomaterials by photopolymerization-based CAD-CAM for vascular tissue engineering

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Cardiovascular Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally.
• Existing artificial vascular grafts (e.g., ePTFE, PET) have limitations, particularly for small-diameter replacements like coronary bypasses.
• There is a critical need for advanced, biocompatible materials for vascular reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and investigate novel photoelastomers for artificial vascular constructs.
• To overcome limitations of current biomaterials, focusing on suture tear resistance and biocompatibility.
• To leverage additive manufacturing (3D CAD-CAM) for creating tissue-engineered vascular grafts.

Main Methods:

• Screening of various monomer formulations for photopolymer suitability.
• Modification of network architecture using dithiol chain transfer agents to reduce crosslink density.
• Tailoring photopolymer properties (mechanical, degradability) using urethane diacrylate, reactive diluents, and dithiols.
• Utilizing 3D computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technologies for graft fabrication.

Main Results:

• Optimized photoelastomers demonstrated mechanical properties comparable to native blood vessels.
• In vitro tests confirmed good biocompatibility of the developed materials.
• The photoelastomers exhibited degradation rates similar to poly(lactic acid).
• Successful fabrication of vascular grafts using 3D CAD-CAM technology was achieved.

Conclusions:

• Modified photoelastomers offer a promising solution for artificial vascular graft applications.
• The combination of tailored photopolymers and 3D CAD-CAM technology facilitates the creation of functional vascular constructs.
• These materials address key limitations of current biomaterials, enhancing potential for cardiovascular surgery.