Structural Optimization of 3D-Printed Porous Titanium Implants Promotes Bone Regeneration for Enhanced Biological...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Titanium alloy implants face challenges with poor bone integration and structural defects, leading to pedicle screw loosening in spinal fixation.
• Enhanced biological fixation is crucial for improving the long-term success of spinal internal fixation devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a structurally optimized porous pedicle screw using 3D printing technology.
• To enhance bone regeneration and biological fixation of spinal implants in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a structurally optimized porous pedicle screw via 3D printing.
• Surface modification using alkali-thermal activation to create a bioactive sodium titanate coating.
• In vivo evaluation in beagle vertebrae to assess osseointegration and fixation.

Main Results:

• The optimized porous structure demonstrated superior mechanical properties and promoted cell adhesion and growth.
• The porous screw exhibited immediate bonding strength and bending resistance comparable to clinical standards.
• The bioactive coating enhanced bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) proliferation, adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation.
• In vivo studies showed promoted bone regeneration, ingrowth into the porous structure, and enhanced osseointegration.

Conclusions:

• Structurally optimized porous pedicle screws offer an innovative strategy for spinal internal fixation.
• The combination of structural optimization and bioactive coating significantly enhances implant osseointegration and biological fixation.
• This approach advances the clinical potential of 3D-printed orthopedic implants for spinal applications.