Computer modeling and analysis of bone scaffolds for large segmental defect

In bone tissue engineering, both medical and engineering sciences aid in development of scaffolds as the remedial sources to treat bone tissue loss. From the design perspective, internal geometry of a scaffold along with the properties of the material from which the scaffold is made, are key factors in the success of the treatment. The biomechanical forces (stresses) experienced by the cells in the human physiological environment influence the successive bone formation. These loads and stresses depend on scaffold geometry and material used, which can be efficiently examined by computer modeling at reduced cost. The effect of changes in internal architectures (geometry) and material properties on the scaffold function can be predicted and optimized, possibly with respect to the implantation site and size. Therefore, in the present study, computer simulation, based on finite element analysis (FEA), was used to evaluate various scaffold models having different pore shapes (cubical, spherical and hexagonal) and sizes. Furthermore, effects of two different biocompatible materials (titanium and polycaprolactone) were also investigated. The CAD modeling and analysis both were done, using ABAQUS software package. The compressive strength of each scaffold was first predicted and its function in a large defect site of human femur was then analyzed. Finally, the best combination of material and geometry was determined in a way to have the closest function to that of intact femur, when replacing a large segmental defect.

Keywords:

Bone repair , Internal configuration , Material properties , Large segmental damage