Effect of the filling pattern in 3D-printed polylactic acid scaffolds on mechanical properties and cell proliferation for bone tissue regeneration

Abstract

3D printing technology can control the shape and filling pattern of the scaffold very well and has been widely used in the preparation of bone repair scaffolds. Modifying the filling pattern of scaffolds to alter their mechanical properties and cellular adhesion holds immense significance. In this study, 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds with different fibre angles (15°-90°) were prepared. The 90° scaffold showed the best mechanical properties and was suitable for repairing long bones. The 60° scaffold has balanced mechanical properties and is suitable for maxillofacial bone repair. The scaffold with a 30° angle was the best for cell adhesion and proliferation and was suitable for cancellous bone repair.