Designer for the prosthetist
Inspired by the Lego designer, researchers from the Oregon Health and Science University have developed a technology for three-dimensional printing of small hollow blocks measuring 1.5 mm, which create a framework for the growth of healthy tissue.
The new, already patented blocks are easy to use: they can be put together like fragments of a constructor and build a prosthesis of any shape and size to restore damaged bone tissue. Trauma surgeons usually treat complex bone fractures with metal spokes or plates to stabilize the bone, and then implant biocompatible materials filled with powders or pastes that promote regeneration.
The unique advantage of the new fracture treatment system is that the hollow blocks can be filled with various growth factors and installed where they are needed. They improve the healing process by stimulating cell growth in the right place at the right time. In addition, various growth factors can be placed inside each block, which allows for more accurate and rapid tissue repair. In rats, the new therapy tactics resulted in three times faster growth of blood vessels compared to standard treatment.
Like a constructor, small modules can be assembled to fit in almost any space. The researchers report that more than 29,000 different configurations can be created from four modules consisting of 4 blocks (4×4).
3D-printed blocks can be used to repair bone defects after removal of tumors, to restore the spine and to strengthen weakened jaw bones before dental implantation. In addition, if the ink composition is changed, the resulting blocks can be used to restore soft tissues. In the future, the authors hope to put a modular approach as the basis for the manufacture of artificial organs for transplantation. Studies are being prepared to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology for the treatment of more complex bone fractures in rats and larger animals.
Article C.Hipfingr. 3D printing of microgel-loaded modular Lego-like microcages as instructive scaffolds for tissue engineering is published in the journal Advanced Materials.
Aminat Adzhieva, portal "Eternal Youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru based on OHSU materials: Lego-inspired bone and soft tissue repair with tiny, 3D-printed bricks.