StageBio scientists co-author study that demonstrate the benefit of 3D-printed scaffolds with geometric mismatches to treat periorbital bony defects

Treating large periorbital bone defects

As reported in a recent study co-authored by StageBio scientists, 3D-printed scaffolds that are tissue-engineered with a geometric mismatch are beneficial for the treatment of large periorbital bone defects in a large animal model. Previously, matching the defect-specific geometry had long been considered an optimal strategy to restore pre-injury anatomy in repairing periorbital bony defects. However, studies in large animal models with matching of defects have revealed that biomaterial-induced bone formation largely occurs around the scaffold periphery and such ectopic bone formation in the periorbital region can affect vision and cause disfigurement.

StageBio scientists, senior pathologist Dr. David Garlick and morphometrists Will Grundy and Derick Vollmer, contributed to this current study that described the effect of intentional and strategic geometric mismatches within a 3D-printed scaffold on regeneration, osseointegraion, and scaffold survivability. The study was conducted by treating full thickness zygomatic defects in adult, skeletally mature Yucatan minipigs with 3D-printed scaffolds that contained geometric mismatches and were used in combination with autologous stromal vascular fraction of cells.

After one year, a positive correlation was found between geometric mismatch and orthotopic bone deposition at the site of the defect. A geometric mismatch strategically designed within the 3D-printed scaffold suggested that strategic mismatch >20% could improve bone scaffold design to promote enhanced regeneration, osseointegration, and long-term scaffold survivability.

Learn more about geometric mismatches within 3D-printed scaffolds for treating large periorbital bone defects

Access the study, “Geometric Mismatch Promotes Anatomic Repair in Periorbital Bony Defects in Skeletally Mature Yucatan Minipigs,” here.