Scientists from Johns Hopkins University have found a way to make bones printed on 3D-printer stronger than before. The need to create such bones occurs during maxillofacial operations.
Typically, surgeons take a piece of bone from the patient’s hip, cutting it to the desired shape. However, this approach may lead to the development of serious complications as a bone replacement, which is perfect is not always possible.
The solution may be bio-printing – using it to create bones for patients. In order to increase the strength of such structures, researchers have proposed to print them from a mixture of polycaprolactone and bone meal.
Polycaprolactone, biodegradable polymer, mixed with crushed bone. Thus the proteins contained in the bone, and part of the artificial bone ensures the prosthesis better survives.
Researchers led by Warren Grayson tested mixtures with different ratios of the components in which bone meal ranged from 5 to 85%. It was found that a mixture with a high content of powder made artificial bones brittle. Most scientists conducted experiments on tissues from 30 and 70% content of bone meal.
They are added to a mixture of beta-glycerophosphate, which contributes to the accumulation of calcium in the bone. In experiments on mice, the authors showed the composite material boosted the growth of bone two times in comparison with polycaprolactone without adding bone meal. Scientists note that experiments on the selection of the optimal mix continues.
Source: http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/the_search_for_better_bone_replacement_3_d_printed_bone_with_just_the_right_mix_of_ingredients_
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00101
This advanced technology exists in Ukraine. Unfortunately, we tend to think that only abroad good clinics, with advanced technology and professional doctors exist. While the medical system in Ukraine is far from ideal, and we must get rid of inferiority complex. It is not necessary to go far to get the expert help of professionals. The Bioengineering Rehabilitation for Wounded project has for the past 18 months proven it. For our wards this advanced technology is the only way to avoid disability and physical limitations. And it is here in Ukraine they can be provided with this assistance. The number of men who have been put back on their feet by the project’s doctors is growing. And many more wounded military personnel are in need of medical care which can not be provided in public institutions, and often not even abroad. So once again we ask all to get involved in fundraising to support Ukraine’s military.
Soldiers for treatment we are actively fundraising for:
