Functionalization of 3D printed PLGA-based scaffolds for bone regeneration

Bone defect remains an intractable issue for clinical orthopedics owing to their varied sizes and irregular shapes. Poly (lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based artificial bone grafts has garnered considerable attention in bone repair owing to their outstanding biocompatibility and tunable biodegradability. 3D printing technology is a feasible means due to its ability to construct scaffolds with defined shapes for restoring bone defects in clinical practice. In this review, the physicochemical properties of PLGA and 3D printing technology are briefly introduced. In addition, diverse strategies to improve the osteogenic performance of 3D printed PLGA scaffolds are elaborated. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives of 3D printed PLGA scaffolds applied in clinical practice are proposed.