What is it about?
We designed lattice structures using a biocompatible polyjet printed polymer to test how well these structures performed mechanically and supported tissue growth biologically. Lattice surfaces were rough for 3D printed beams with variances on the order of 50-150microns due to the layer by layer fabrication process. Findings were used to design and test a spinal fusion cage with appropriate stiffness for vertebral fusion.
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Why is it important?
3D printing allows the fabrication of personalized structures for varied medical treatments with potentially high performance. Here we look at using polymers that are 3D printed rather than metals for bone tissue engineering. The polymers have lower stiffness to avoid stress shielding resulting in weaker bone growth when using metal scaffolds. Additionally, polymers will degrade in the body whereas titanium will not, thus leading to potential complication.
Perspectives
This was an essential step in our research to demonstrated 3D printed polymers have the capacity to support tissue growth with properties suitable for bone tissue engineering applications. Future work will further investigate its feasibility.
Dr. Paul Egan
Texas Tech University System
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Mechanical and Biological Characterization of 3D Printed Lattices, 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, April 2019, Mary Ann Liebert Inc,
DOI: 10.1089/3dp.2018.0125.
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