3D-printed implants foster real bone growth

A multidisciplinary team from NYU’s Medicine and Dentistry colleges has developed 3D-printed implants that promote bone growth.

Described in the Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, the implants function as bioactive scaffolds. Gel-like beta tricalcium phosphate is first printed in forms resembling the bone segments doctors want to encourage. The gel, which contains similar compounds to those found in real bone, is then superheated to create a ceramic implant.   

“Our three-dimensional scaffold represents the best implant in development because of its ability to regenerate real bone,” said senior investigator and biomedical engineer Paulo G Coelho, who works across NYU’s dentistry and medical schools. “Our latest study results move us closer to clinical trials and potential bone implants for children living with skull deformations since birth, as well as for veterans seeking to repair damaged limbs.”