3D-Printed Meniscal Scaffolds

last updated: 2024-02-09
ProjectFUN4TE :: publications list
Title3D-Printed Meniscal Scaffolds
Publication TypeBook Chapter
Year of Publication2022
AuthorsDecante G., Cengiz I. F., Silva-Correia J., Reis R. L., and Oliveira J. M.
EditorsEspregueira-Mendes J., Karlsson J., Musahl V., and Ayeni O. R.
Abstract Text

The meniscus is a fibrocartilaginous tissue found between the femoral condyle and the tibial plateau in the knee. It contributes to the transmission of load, shock absorption, stability, lubrication of the joint, and the overall protection of the articular cartilage, as well as to the proprioception of the knee during movement. Therefore, the meniscus is essential for the healthy function of the knee. Unfortunately, the meniscus is often damaged. Moreover, meniscus injuries may never properly heal due to their segmental vascularization and may therefore require surgical intervention. Modern tissue engineering aims to create meniscal scaffolds, which can replace the meniscus and its functions totally or partially in the short term, before being gradually replaced by newly formed tissue. Many approaches, materials, and techniques have been studied to create meniscal implants. Recently, thanks to the progress of 3D (bio)printing technologies, it has been possible to develop anatomically correct meniscal scaffolds that replicate the complex architecture of the native meniscus. Currently developed meniscal scaffolds are also able to reproduce the biomechanics of native menisci while providing a favorable environment to promote cell differentiation into relevant phenotypes for meniscal extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Although further development in 3D structure is still required, recent results involving 3D (bio)printing of meniscal scaffolds have raised the hopes of producing all-encompassing meniscal personalized implants. The recent studies and trends in 3D printed meniscal scaffolds are overviewed herein.

Book TitleOrthopaedic Sports Medicine - An Encyclopedic Review of Diagnosis, Prevention, and Management
Date2022-06-07
PublisherSpringer
DOI10.1007/978-3-030-65430-6_52-1
Keywords3D bioprinting, Bioink, fibrocartilage, meniscus, Tissue engineering
RightsrestrictedAccess
Peer reviewedyes
Statuspublished

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