A New Approach for Orbital Wall Reconstruction in a Rabbit Animal Model Using a Hybrid Hydroxyapatite-Collagen-Based...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Craniofacial Surgery
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Orbital reconstruction after complex craniofacial fractures is challenging.
• Various materials are used, but no consensus exists on the optimal choice.
• Key factors include durability, biocompatibility, cost, safety, and surgical adjustability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a novel hybrid hydroxyapatite-collagen (HAp-COL) material 3D-printed on titanium mesh for orbital wall reconstruction.
• To assess the biocompatibility and bone integration of this designed implant.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized HAp-COL powder using a high-pressure hydrothermal technique.
• 3D-printed HAp-COL structures onto titanium mesh.
• Assessed in vitro biocompatibility using fibroblast (3T3) and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) adhesion and proliferation.
• Evaluated in vivo implant integration in bone.

Main Results:

• The synthesized HAp-COL material demonstrated high biocompatibility in vitro.
• In vivo studies confirmed good integration of the HAp-COL implant with bone.
• The 3D-printed HAp-COL on Ti mesh showed promising results for orbital reconstruction.

Conclusions:

• The designed HAp-COL material is highly biocompatible and suitable for orbital wall reconstruction.
• This hybrid implant offers a safe and effective option for restoring orbital fractures.
• Further clinical application of this novel biomaterial is supported by the findings.