Cranial burr hole cover of 3D bioceramic bone graft substitute using the additive manufacturing method

Cranial burr hole cover of 3D bioceramic bone graft substitute using the additive manufacturing method

       "Chronic subdural hematoma" refers to the accumulation of hemorrhagic blood between the dura and the arachnoid. It is one of the common diseases in neurosurgery. A craniotomy is the preferred surgical method for clinical treatment of this disease. The materials used are divided into titanium metal, non-degradable polymers (PEEK, PMMA), biopolymers (PCL, PLA, etc.), and biodegradable ceramics. However, titanium metal has the problems of image interference and unfavorable phototherapy and ultrasound therapy for the brain, and non-degradable polymers (PEEK, PMMA) have the risk of inflammation and discomfort. Although biodegradable polymers such as PCL and PLA have osseointegration, their bone cell affinity and osseointegration rate are slower than those of bioceramics. Acidic by-products can sometimes cause inflammatory responses, while biodegradable bioceramic materials are expected to have the fastest growth rate over the forecast period and have diagnostic advantages for l phototherapy and ultrasound therapy for the brain.

The mechanical properties and osteointegration efficiency from traditional porous bioceramic bone substitutes cannot compensate for the strength and optimal biodegradation rate requirement for bone tissue repair, which limits its application. Our team developed the bifunctional ceramic slurry systems that comprise light-curing and reversible negative thermal-responsive. It is an important thing that can be build-up bicontinuous 3D bioceramic scaffold technology with interconnected channel structure and excellent mechanical strength object in the digital light projection (DLP) 3D printer. Whatever, the patented bioceramic slurry can be light-curing into a 3D precision sculpture green-body. And then, the component of the negative thermal-responsive green-body will undergo shrinkage and drainage to promote sintering and densification under the high-temperature sintering process. Finally, it can achieve well mechanical properties within the bicontinuous 3D bioceramic scaffold.

Graphical Abstract

Application and Highlights:

We are working to make bone replacements more accurate, effective, and safe. Our product allows clinicians to provide bone scaffolding that precisely matches patient needs and simplifies workflows, thereby improving patient outcomes and procedural efficiency. For patients this offers a lower risk of adverse side effects and optimal performance resulting in faster recovery.

The major technical features of our method are listed below:

◆Appropriate mechanical properties

◆Promote osteointegration efficiency

◆Well biocompatibility

◆Standardized and customized

◆Similar to clinical commercial mateial

Research Team Members: Prof. Chih-Kuang Wang, Chih-Yun Lee, Yu-Hui Wang, Li-Ann Chi, Jie-Ying Wang

Clinician Consultant: Dr. Chung-Hwan Chen、Dr. Yu-Feng Su、Dr. Sung-Yen Lin

Representative Department: Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center (RCC)

Introduction of Research Team: The team has three patents for negative temperature-sensitive bioceramics system that are deployed around the world. We have been committed to the development of " healing faster, and supportive 3D bioceramic aggregates" 3D printing technology. Precision bone graft substitutes for personalized bone healing with the primary mission of promoting human health and well-being.

Contact Email: ckwang@kmu.edu.tw