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Long Bone Defect Filling with Bioactive Degradable 3D-Implant: Experimental Study.
Arnold Popkov1, Natalia Kononovich1, Gleb Dubinenko2
1Ilizarov National Medical Research Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics, Kurgan 640014, Russia.
Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 24, 2023
Summary
This study explored 3D-printed degradable polymeric bone implants for defect repair. Results show successful osseointegration and bone regeneration, indicating potential for treating bone defects.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- 3D-printed titanium alloy bone grafts with bioactive coatings show promise for bone defect restoration.
- Cellular structure titanium implants stimulate osteogenesis and osseointegration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the osseointegration of a 3D-printed degradable polymeric implant with a cellular structure.
- To conduct preclinical testing of a novel technique for bone defect restoration using biodegradable implants.
Main Methods:
- A 20 mm segmental tibial defect was created in sheep.
- An original cylindrical implant made of polycaprolactone coated with hydroxyapatite was used.
- Osseointegration and bone regeneration were assessed using X-ray radiography.
Main Results:
- Reparative bone regeneration was observed from the periosteum towards the implant center within one week.
- The implant's cellular structure was completely filled with new bone tissue by the fourth week.
- Bone tissue regeneration from proximal and distal bone fragments was evident by the third week.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed degradable implants with bioactive coatings can effectively restore segmental bone defects.
- These implants stimulate reparative osteogenesis and achieve osseointegration, forming a single bone-implant block.

