Strategies for the Patient-Specific Implant Angle of Bone Scaffolds Using Optimization.

Abstract

Background: Bone scaffolds are artificial structures used for restoring bone functionality via the reconstruction and repair of bone tissue. Although these scaffolds interact seamlessly with the surrounding tissue, conventional scaffold designs often fail to consider the microstructure of the surrounding bone, leading to reduced mechanical performance. This study proposed an implantation angle optimization approach for bone scaffolds that considers the microstructures around the implant, thus improving the mechanical properties of commonly used scaffolds.

Method: This study proposed a novel method for optimizing the implantation angle of bone scaffolds, thereby enhancing their mechanical performance and integration with the surrounding bone tissue. A finite element model based on the imaging data of the bone scaffold within the skeletal system was constructed. Then, the structural behavior under external load was analyzed to determine the optimal implantation angle by rotating the bone scaffold.

Result: Bone scaffolds with optimized angles show up to 7.53% strain energy difference between the scaffold and native bone, which improves load transfer and supports more natural bone remodeling. These results suggest that this approach enhances scaffold stability and reduces the risk of implant failure.

Conclusion: The results highlight the potential of the proposed approach to optimize the implantation angle considering the bone microstructure, thus significantly enhancing scaffold performance. The combination of these strategies shows significant potential for advancing bone-repair solutions and improving patient outcomes in orthopedic surgeries.