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Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_2 | Pages 51 - 51
1 Mar 2021
Zhang B Nguyen A Narayan R Huang J
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Abstract

3D printing of synthetic scaffolds mimicking natural bone chemical composition, structure, and mechanical properties is a promising approach for repairing bone injuries. Direct ink writing (DIW), a type of 3D printing, confers compatibility with a wide range of materials without exposing these materials to extreme heat. Optimizing ink properties such as filament formation capabilities, shear-thinning, and high storage modulus recovery would improve DIW fabrication characteristics. In this study, composite inks based on biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL), reinforced with nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp), and loaded with vancomycin were designed and evaluated for their rheological properties, wettability, mechanical properties, and antimicrobial properties. The formulated composite inks displayed a shear-thinning behaviour exhibited storage modulus recovery percentages above 80% for all formulations, which is essential for extrusion deposition by DIW at room temperature. Ink formulations were able to form fully interconnected lattice scaffolds with porosities ranging from 42% to 65%. Increasing the HAp concentrations from 55% to 85% w/w increased the shear thinning behaviour and reduced the printed filament width to more closely match the nozzle diameter; this indicates higher HAp proportion reduces ink shrinkage. The scaffold had high wettability at HAp proportions above 65% w/w and the compressive elastic modulus of DIW printed scaffolds exhibited within the range of trabecular bone. Antimicrobial activity was apparent from the agar diffusion assay; zones of inhibition ranging from 15.82 ± 0.25 mm and 20.06 ± 0.25 mm were observed after 24 hr for composite scaffolds loaded with 3% and 9% w/w vancomycin respectively. Vancomycin-loaded PCL/HAp composite inks were developed, displaying good printability, wettability, mechanical properties, and antimicrobial properties, making them an attractive choice for bone repair and regeneration.

Declaration of Interest

(b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project.