Vascularization and Bone Regeneration with 3D-Printed Composite Scaffolds in Rodent Critical-Size Calvarial Defects:...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Rapid vascularization is crucial for successful bone regeneration in oral and maxillofacial defects.
• 3D-printed scaffolds offer potential for bone defect repair, but their efficacy requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review in vivo evidence on 3D-printed composite scaffolds in rodent calvarial defects.
• To evaluate the impact of composite scaffolds on vascularization and bone regeneration outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies published between January 2014 and December 2025 from PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science.
• Inclusion of studies comparing composite scaffolds with non-composite scaffolds or empty controls, reporting vascular and bone outcomes.
• Quantitative analysis using Microfil perfusion and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT).

Main Results:

• Composite scaffolds were associated with a significantly higher new bone area compared to controls (p = 0.031).
• Functional modifications of scaffolds correlated with increased vascularized area (p = 0.025) and new bone area (p = 0.038).
• Pore sizes of 400 μm or larger were linked to higher bone volume fraction (BV/TV) (p = 0.029).

Conclusions:

• 3D-printed composite scaffolds demonstrate potential for enhancing bone regeneration and vascularization in critical-size calvarial defects.
• Standardized methodologies and improved reporting are essential for optimizing scaffold design and facilitating clinical translation.
• Further research is needed to define optimal design features for composite scaffolds in bone regeneration.