3D printing in medicine最新文献

{"title":"Biomechanical design considerations of a 3D-printed tibiotalocalcaneal nail for ankle joint fusion.","authors":"Kin Weng Wong, Shao-Fu Huang, Skye Hsin-Hsien Yeh, Tai-Hua Yang, Cheng-Yi Liang, Chun-Li Lin","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00268-9","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-025-00268-9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis treatment using intramedullary nails faces significant challenges due to inadequate bone integration and mechanical stability. This study developed a novel 3D-printed long titanium TTC intramedullary nail incorporating diamond lattice structures and differential thread leads to enhance biological fixation and compression. Four 3D-printed TTC nails (5 mm diameter, 70 mm length) with solid (TTC 1), lattice structure (TTC 2), lattice with longitudinal ribs (TTC 3), and lattice with both longitudinal and transverse ribs (TTC 4) were designed and manufactured. The lattice region featured a diamond array (70% porosity, 650 μm pore size, 1.2 mm unit length) with 2.5 mm thickness surrounding a 2.5 mm solid core. Static four-point bending tests assessed mechanical strength following ASTM F1264 protocols. Six skeletally mature Yorkshire pigs underwent TTC arthrodesis using TTC 1, 2, and 4 designs. Outcomes were evaluated using radiographic imaging and micro-CT analysis at 12 weeks post-surgery. All 3D-printed nails demonstrated acceptable precision with errors below 5% for straightness, circularity, and pitch distance. Mechanical testing revealed fracture strengths of 2387.33 ± 32.88 N, 435.00 ± 50.00 N, 849.17 ± 63.98 N, and 1133.67 ± 81.28 N for TTC 1-4, respectively. The differential thread design achieved significant compression ratios (81-82.5%) at fusion sites. Micro-CT analysis showed significantly higher bone formation in lattice designs (TTC 2: 145.37 ± 37.35 mm³, TTC 4: 137.81 ± 9.52 mm³) compared to the solid design (TTC 1: 28.085 ± 3.21 mm³). However, TTC 2 experienced two implant fractures, while TTC 4 maintained structural integrity while promoting substantial bone growth. This study concluded that titanium 3D printing technology can be applied for manufacturing long TTC intramedullary nails with surface lattice design but reinforcing ribs need to be added to provide enough mechanical strength.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"21"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12063370/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144060510","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Patient-specific 3D tibial model: transforming meniscal allograft transplantation and surgical planning.","authors":"Paula Andrea Sarmiento Riveros, Alejandro Jaramillo Quiceno, Rubén Darío Arias Pérez","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00267-w","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-025-00267-w","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) restores knee function by replacing a damaged or absent meniscus with a healthy allograft, helping to preserve joint stability, distribute the load, and reduce cartilage degeneration. However, traditional 2D imaging techniques fail to fully capture the knee's complex three-dimensional anatomy, making accurate surgical planning challenging. Computed Tomography (CT)-based 3D printing offers a patient-specific solution by generating anatomically precise tibial models, allowing for enhanced preoperative planning. This is particularly valuable in complex cases involving tibial osteotomy and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, where precise tunnel positioning is critical to avoid tunnel convergence and ensure optimal graft integration.</p><p><strong>Case presentation: </strong>We present a case study and methodology demonstrating the generation and application of 3D-printed tibial models to assist in MAT, ACL reconstruction, and tibial osteotomy. High-resolution CT scans (slice thickness < 1 mm) were processed using D2P software to create a full-scale 3D model, which was printed using Hyper PLA filament. The 3D-printed model was provided to the tissue bank to optimize meniscal allograft selection and was integrated into preoperative planning to precisely determine tibial tunnel locations and angles, preventing overlap between MAT, ACL tunnels, and the osteotomy site. Intraoperatively, the model served as an accurate physical guide, facilitating osteophyte removal, guided tunnel drilling, and precise meniscal graft placement. Its use improved graft sizing accuracy minimized tunnel convergence, and allowed real-time intraoperative adjustments, which can improve surgical precision and decision-making.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The integration of patient-specific 3D-printed models into surgical planning and execution may improve accuracy and efficiency in complex MAT procedures that also involve tibial osteotomy and ACL reconstruction. These models offer detailed anatomical reference points that facilitate more precise graft selection, tunnel placement, and intraoperative decision-making. However, further studies are needed to validate their dimensional accuracy, evaluate clinical outcomes in larger cohorts, and determine their feasibility for routine use in orthopedic practice.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"20"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12054210/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144008200","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Utilization of 3D printing modeling techniques in the simulation instruction of ultrasound-guided puncture procedures on scoliotic spines of spinal muscular atrophy.","authors":"Di Xia, Fangliang Xing, Jiao Zhang, Jiaxin Lang, Gang Tan, Xulei Cui","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00266-x","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-025-00266-x","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Puncture training with simulation models has emerged as a critical method for transmitting puncture skills, improving success rates, and minimizing injuries. Yet, obstacles such as proper material for ultrasound guidance, restricted options of 3D printing resources, and available substances to simulate human skin and muscle still hinder the production of simulation models that closely replicate clinical practice. This study aimed to develop a selective laser melting (SLM), 3D-printed simulation model that replicated the spine and skin contours of patients with spinal scoliosis.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The 3D models of the scoliotic spines were developed from 3D reconstructions of high-resolution, computed tomography images from patients with spinal scoliosis, while the models of the skin to the bone structure were constructed based on the 3D reconstructions of the skin contours. SLM technology was used to print 3D models of the patients' spines. Gelatin casting was implemented to simulate the patients' skin and muscle tissues and to meet ultrasound anatomical requirements. Practical puncture training, which closely resembles clinical puncture practice, was then carried out to validate the effectiveness of the model. Improvements in proficiency and confidence in performing ultrasound-guided punctures after the simulation-model training were evaluated using the paired sample t test.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>This research utilized 3D digital modeling, SLM 3D printing technology, and gelatin casting to establish simulation models of patients' spines and skin contours impacted by spinal scoliosis. The use of medical grade stainless steel material for modeling the spine and gelatin for skin and muscle tissues ensured the model had superior ultrasound anatomical properties. After the simulation training session, participants' proficiency and confidence in both ultrasound-assisted positioning and real-time guided puncture showed significant improvement, demonstrating the effectiveness of the simulation training model.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The simulation model closely mimicked real clinical situations and was an effective training tool for medical professionals. Furthermore, these findings demonstrated the potential of 3D printing technology in developing simulation models that closely replicate real-world clinical scenarios and may have significant implications for medical education and training.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"19"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12034200/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144045446","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Enhancing management of double outlet right ventricle when the interventricular communication is remote from the arterial roots through three-dimensional printing.","authors":"Hamood Nasar Al Kindi, Madan Mohan Maddali, Pranav Subbaraya Kandachar, Robert Henry Anderson","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00265-y","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00265-y","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Double outlet right ventricle with remote interventricular communication presents significant surgical challenges. Traditional imaging often fails to provide the detailed, three-dimensional anatomical insights required for complex cases. Advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing offer a valuable tool for preoperative planning and decision-making.</p><p><strong>Cases: </strong>In the first case, a 5-year-old with double outlet right ventricle and remote interventricular communication underwent a Glenn procedure with anticipated univentricular repair. 3D printing revealed the potential for enlarging the communication, leading to a one-and-a-half ventricle repair. The second case involved a 2-day-old infant with double outlet right ventricle, aortic arch interruption, and remote communication. At one year, 3D modelling enabled a successful left ventricle-to-aorta baffle.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These cases underscore 3D printing's role in improving precision, reducing complications, and potentially lowering costs in managing complex congenital heart disease.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"18"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11974168/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143797247","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Custom-made 3D-printed X-ray shield for tumor-specific irradiation of xenograft mice.","authors":"Markus Lechner, Anna Kolz, Kristina Herre, Dana Matzek, Adrian Schomburg, Bastian Popper","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00264-z","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00264-z","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Xenograft mouse models play an important role in preclinical cancer research, particularly in the development of new therapeutics. To test the efficacy of a combination therapy consisting of radiation and new drug candidates, it is crucial that only the tumor area is irradiated, while other parts of the body are shielded. In this study, a 3D-printed radiopaque back shield was designed for tumor-specific irradiation and evaluated in a xenograft mouse model.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Different radiopaque materials were initially tested for their shielding properties using the Multirad 225 X-ray irradiator and the most suitable material was used for printing a back shield with a tumor site-specific opening of the cover. Tumor bearing mice were irradiated four times with a dose of 3.5 Gy. To evaluate proper body shielding, blood samples, spleens and bone marrow were examined at the end of the experiment.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A tungsten filament was identified to be most efficient for shielding and used to 3D print a pie-slice-shaped back shield with a tumor-site specific opening, while polylactic acid was used to print a scaffold that ensured proper positioning of the shield. The simple design allowed cost-efficient and fast 3D printing, easy handling and individual modifications of the tumor site openings. In terms of animal safety, the product provided sufficient shielding in the low-dose irradiation protocols of xenograft mice.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The custom-designed 3D-printed tungsten back shields provide proper shielding of the animals body and allow for subcutaneous tumor irradiation under standardized conditions.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"17"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11974114/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143797246","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"3D-printed skull model for enhancing training in external ventricular drainage within medical education.","authors":"Katharina Scheidt, Fabian Kropla, Dirk Winkler, Robert Möbius, Martin Vychopen, Johannes Wach, Erdem Güresir, Ronny Grunert","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00263-0","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00263-0","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The importance of reducing error rates in invasive procedures has led to the development of teaching phantoms. In collaboration with surgeons and engineers at the University Hospital of Leipzig, a new 3D-printed simulation model for external ventricular drainage was created. This model includes system-relevant components such as the ventricular system, the surrounding brain tissue and the skull bone to be trephined. The methodology for developing the simulation model is described in detail. Additionally, the system was initially evaluated by neurosurgeons using a Likert scale. Future studies are planned to assess the system's accuracy and perform comparative analyses.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The data required for analysis were extracted from medical images. The phantom consists of three components: the ventricular system, the brain mass, and the skull bone. The bone component was fabricated via 3D printing using a realistic hard polyamide, PA12. The ventricular system was also 3D printed as a hollow structure using a flexible material, Elastic Resin 50 A from Formlabs. The brain tissue was modeled via a cast gelatin mold. The cerebrospinal fluid was a water solution.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The system's initial tests successfully simulated cerebrospinal fluid flow through the tube into the ventricular system. The skull can be trepanned. Additional materials are required at the drilling sites because of chip formation. A more pointed cannula than usual can puncture the ventricular system. With a concentration of 30 g/l, gelatin is a realistic imitation of brain tissue.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>All essential components of the skull, brain and ventricle exhibit a degree of realism that has never been achieved before. In terms of its design and reproducibility, the model is exceptionally well suited for training and consolidating methods and procedures as part of a realistic training program for the placement of external ventricular drainage.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"16"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11969789/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143775067","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Treatment of distal radius giant cell tumor with 3D-printed metal prosthesis combined with mesh patch.","authors":"Tianwen Zhang, Xiaoning Tan, Zhenchao Yuan, Bin Liu, Jiachang Tan","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00261-2","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00261-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study introduces a surgical technique involving the use of 3D-printed all-metal prostheses combined with mesh patches for the treatment of distal radial giant cell tumors, analyzing and evaluating the midterm outcomes for patients undergoing this treatment. The experience provides insights into the application of prosthesis replacement for reconstructing distal radial defects.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>From January 2018 to January 2021, our center treated five cases of distal radial giant cell tumors using 3D-printed all-metal prostheses combined with mesh patches. Postoperative pain, range of motion, and grip strength were evaluated for all patients. Oncological outcomes, complications, and degenerative changes in the wrist joint were also assessed. Functional outcomes were evaluated based on the Mayo wrist score system.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The average follow-up period was 40.8 months (range: 32-66months). At the last follow-up, the mean range of motion (ROM) in the affected wrists was 20° extension, 21.6° flexion, 71.2° pronation, and 50° supination. The mean grip strength on the affected side was 64.2% compared to the unaffected side, with a Mayo score of 70. There were no incidences of aseptic loosening, wrist subluxation, or infections post-prosthesis replacement, although two cases presented with distal radioulnar joint dislocation. Of these, one case demonstrated ulnar impaction syndrome with positive ulnar variance and lunate bone degenerative changes on the 12-month postoperative radiographs. No recurrences or metastases were observed.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Utilizing 3D-printed metal prostheses and mesh grafts for the treatment of Campanacci Grade III or recurrent giant cell tumors of the distal radius is an effective approach. This strategy provides favorable functional outcomes during the early to mid stages of treatment, while also maintaining a low risk of complications. The concurrent use of mesh grafts facilitates early postoperative exercise, thereby accelerating functional recovery. Moreover, the intraoperative protection or reconstruction of joint ligaments, along with precise matching of the prostheses, contributes to a reduction in the risk of complications.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"15"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-03-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11948848/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143722729","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Conventional vs. 3D printed band and loop space maintainers: a fracture strength analysis.","authors":"Sakshi Metkar, Bhagyashree Thakur, Dian Agustin Wahjuningrum, Ali A Assiry, Khalid Alshamrani, Sudhir Rama Varma, Ajinkya M Pawar, Mohmed Isaqali Karobari","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00262-1","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00262-1","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Premature loss of primary teeth is a common occurrence in pediatric dentistry and often necessitates the use of space maintainers to prevent complications. Traditional space maintainers, such as band and loop space maintainers (BLSM), have been widely used, but are fabricated using conventional methods. With advancements in technology, three-dimensional (3D) printing has emerged as a promising alternative for fabricating dental appliances including space maintainers. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the fracture strengths of conventional band and loop space maintainers (C-BLSMs) fabricated using stainless steel with that of 3D printed BLSMs manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques. Fifteen C-BLSM and fifteen 3D printed BLSMs were fabricated and subjected to fracture-strength testing using a universal testing machine. The maximum occlusal bite force in the mixed dentition was determined based on established literature. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the mean fracture resistance between the two groups. The mean fracture resistance of the 3D printed BLSMs was significantly higher (308.53 N) than that of C-BLSMs (130.85 N). This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05), highlighting the superior mechanical properties of 3D printed BLSMs. Three-dimensional printing technology offers significant advantages in terms of fracture strength compared with conventional fabrication methods for BLSMs.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"14"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-03-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11927368/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143675078","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Microsoft HoloLens 2 vs. tablet-based augmented reality and 3D printing for fronto-orbital reconstruction of craniosynostosis: a case study.","authors":"Alicia Pose-Díez-de-la-Lastra, Mónica García-Sevilla, Austin Tapp, Manuel Tousidonis, Juan-Vicente Darriba-Alles, Marius George Linguraru, Javier Pascau, Santiago Ochandiano","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00251-4","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00251-4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Craniosynostosis is a congenital condition characterized by the premature fusion of cranial sutures, leading to potential complications such as abnormal skull growth, increased intracranial pressure, and cognitive delays. Traditionally, open cranial vault reconstruction (OCVR) has been used to treat this condition. However, it is highly subjective and greatly dependent on the surgeon's expertise, which can lead to residual deformities and the need for reoperation. Effective preoperative planning can greatly improve surgical outcomes, although the major challenge is accurately translating this plan into the clinical setting. Recently, augmented reality (AR) and 3D printing have emerged as promising technologies to facilitate this endeavor. In this work, we propose three alternatives, leveraging these technologies, to guide the precise repositioning of remodeled bone fragments in the patient.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The three guidance methods are AR on a tablet, AR with Microsoft HoloLens 2, and 3D-printed spacers. The accuracy of each method was assessed by measuring the deviation of each bone fragment from the virtual surgical plan (VSP) in a simulated environment using 3D-printed phantoms based on a 14-month-old boy with trigonocephaly. The same assessment was also performed during his actual surgery.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>All three guidance methods demonstrated similar levels of accuracy, with mean placement errors below 1 mm in all cases. The AR systems allowed for real-time adjustments, enhancing precision. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in error rates between the different methods or attempts.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Integrating AR and 3D printing into craniosynostosis surgery holds great potential for improving OCVR. While 3D-printed spacers are useful when digital technologies are unavailable, AR-based methods provide more comprehensive guidance. Nevertheless, our study suggests that the choice may depend more on the specific clinical context, user-specific skills, and available resources rather than on a clear superiority of one method over the others.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"13"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-03-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11927182/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143675030","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Trabecular-bone mimicking osteoconductive collagen scaffolds: an optimized 3D printing approach using freeform reversible embedding of suspended hydrogels.","authors":"Michael G Kontakis, Marie Moulin, Brittmarie Andersson, Norein Norein, Ayan Samanta, Christina Stelzl, Adam Engberg, Anna Diez-Escudero, Johan Kreuger, Nils P Hailer","doi":"10.1186/s41205-025-00255-0","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41205-025-00255-0","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Technological constraints limit 3D printing of collagen structures with complex trabecular shapes. However, the Freeform Reversible Embedding of Suspended Hydrogels (FRESH) method may allow for precise 3D printing of porous collagen scaffolds that carry the potential for repairing critical size bone defects.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Collagen type I scaffolds mimicking trabecular bone were fabricated through FRESH 3D printing and compared either with 2D collagen coatings or with 3D-printed polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) scaffolds. The porosity of the printed scaffolds was visualized by confocal microscopy, the surface geometry of the scaffolds was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and their mechanical properties were assessed with a rheometer. The osteoconductive properties of the different scaffolds were evaluated for up to four weeks by seeding and propagation of primary human osteoblasts (hOBs) or SaOS-2 cells. Intracellular alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities were measured, and cells colonizing scaffolds were stained for osteocalcin (OCN).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The FRESH technique enables printing of constructs at the millimetre scale using highly concentrated collagen, and the creation of stable trabecular structures that can support the growth osteogenic cells. FRESH-printed collagen scaffolds displayed an intricate and fibrous 3D network, as visualized by SEM, whereas the PEGDA scaffolds had a smooth surface. Amplitude sweep analyses revealed that the collagen scaffolds exhibited predominantly elastic behaviour, as indicated by higher storage modulus values relative to loss modulus values, while the degradation rate of collagen scaffolds was greater than PEGDA. The osteoconductive properties of collagen scaffolds were similar to those of PEGDA scaffolds but superior to 2D collagen, as verified by cell culture followed by analysis of ALP/LDH activity and OCN immunostaining.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Our findings suggest that FRESH-printed collagen scaffolds exhibit favourable mechanical, degradation and osteoconductive properties, potentially outperforming synthetic polymers such as PEGDA in bone tissue engineering applications.</p>","PeriodicalId":72036,"journal":{"name":"3D printing in medicine","volume":"11 1","pages":"11"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-03-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11895158/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143598198","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}