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Topology-optimized melt-electrowritten PCL patch for abdominal wall reconstruction
Yakui Liu1, Max von Witzleben1, Sarah Duin1
1Centre for Translational Bone, Joint and Soft Tissue Research, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
Bioactive Materials
|October 17, 2025
Summary
Engineered abdominal wall scaffolds using topology optimization and melt electrowriting (MEW) show superior mechanical strength. This novel approach enhances fibroblast proliferation and demonstrates clinical suitability for hernia repair.
Area of Science:
- Tissue Engineering
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Abdominal wall repair necessitates scaffolds with high mechanical strength.
- Current scaffold design and fabrication methods require optimization for enhanced performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and fabricate novel abdominal wall scaffolds using topology optimization and melt electrowriting (MEW).
- To evaluate the mechanical and biological performance of the designed scaffolds for abdominal repair.
Main Methods:
- Topology optimization was employed for systematic scaffold design.
- Melt electrowriting (MEW) was utilized for scaffold fabrication, a first for abdominal repair.
- Mechanical testing, fibroblast proliferation assays, and ex vivo porcine abdominal wall tests were conducted.
Main Results:
- Topology-optimized scaffolds exhibited 39% superior tensile strength (1.85 N/cm) compared to conventional designs.
- Collagen coating enhanced fibroblast attachment and proliferation, particularly in multi-layer scaffolds.
- Ex vivo tests confirmed the clinical mechanical suitability of the fabricated scaffolds.
Conclusions:
- Topology optimization and MEW offer a promising strategy for designing high-performance abdominal wall repair scaffolds.
- The developed scaffolds demonstrate significant improvements in mechanical properties and biological integration.
- This innovative approach advances tissue engineering for abdominal defect repair.
