Chapter 6 - Overview of scaffolds processing technologies

Abstract

The present chapter gives an overview on the scaffold processing technologies commonly used in bone tissue engineering (BTE). The techniques, their applications and results of the last two decades are deeply analyzed. Using advanced processing methods and materials chemistries, multifunctional scaffolds with complex (three-dimensional) 3D architectures that mimic bone tissue environment have been fabricated. Processing techniques have been divided in conventional and additive manufacturing technologies (AM). Main emphasis is given to AM technologies that have attracted the attention of scientists in the last decade. The benefits and drawbacks of each fabrication technique are described together with an examination of the materials’ influence on scaffold final properties. Conventional techniques are easy to use and allow processing a wide range of materials. However, they show a lack of control in terms of mechanical properties and the impossibility to clearly predict pore distribution and poor repeatability. AM or rapid prototyping techniques (RP), overcoming the limitations of conventional techniques, are additive fabrication processes able to create custom-made products by means of computer assisted technologies, starting from patient’s medical images.