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Blázquez-Carmona P, Mora-Macías J, Morgaz J, Granados MDM, Domínguez J, Reina-Romo E. Gait analysis: An effective tool to mechanically monitor the bone regeneration of critical-sized defects in tissue engineering applications. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0296510. [PMID: 38157369 PMCID: PMC10756556 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tissue engineering has emerged as an innovative approach to treat critical-size bone defects using biocompatible scaffolds, thus avoiding complex distraction surgeries or limited stock grafts. Continuous regeneration monitoring is essential in critical-size cases due to the frequent appearance of non-unions. This work evaluates the potential clinical use of gait analysis for the mechanical assessment of a tissue engineering regeneration as an alternative to the traditional and hardly conclusive manual or radiological follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS The 15-mm metatarsal fragment of eight female merino sheep was surgically replaced by a bioceramic scaffold stabilized with an external fixator. Gait tests were performed weekly by making the sheep walk on an instrumented gangway. The evolution of different kinematic and dynamic parameters was analyzed for all the animal's limbs, as well as asymmetries between limbs. Finally, potential correlation in the recovery of the gait parameters was evaluated through the linear regression models. RESULTS After surgery, the operated limb has an altered way of carrying body weight while walking. Its loading capacity was significantly reduced as the stance phases were shorter and less impulsive. The non-operated limbs compensated for this mobility deficit. All parameters were normalizing during the consolidation phase while the bone callus was simultaneously mineralizing. The results also showed high levels of asymmetry between the operated limb and its contralateral, which exceeded 150% when analyzing the impulse after surgery. Gait recovery significantly correlated between symmetrical limbs. CONCLUSIONS Gait analysis was presented as an effective, low-cost tool capable of mechanically predicting the regeneration of critical-size defects treated by tissue engineering, as comparing regeneration processes or novel scaffolds. Despite the progressive normalization as the callus mineralized, the bearing capacity reduction and the asymmetry of the operated limb were more significant than in other orthopedic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Blázquez-Carmona
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Juan Mora-Macías
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Department of Mining, Mechanical, Energy and Building Engineering, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Juan Morgaz
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Córdoba, Spain
| | - María del Mar Granados
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jaime Domínguez
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Esther Reina-Romo
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Blázquez-Carmona P, Mora-Macías J, Martínez-Vázquez FJ, Morgaz J, Domínguez J, Reina-Romo E. Mechanics Predicts Effective Critical-Size Bone Regeneration Using 3D-Printed Bioceramic Scaffolds. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2023; 20:893-904. [PMID: 37606809 PMCID: PMC10519928 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-023-00577-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 3D-printed bioceramic scaffolds have gained popularity due to their controlled microarchitecture and their proven biocompatibility. However, their high brittleness makes their surgical implementation complex for weight-bearing bone treatments. Thus, they would require difficult-to-instrument rigid internal fixations that limit a rigorous evaluation of the regeneration progress through the analysis of mechanic-structural parameters. METHODS We investigated the compatibility of flexible fixations with fragile ceramic implants, and if mechanical monitoring techniques are applicable to bone tissue engineering applications. Tissue engineering experiments were performed on 8 ovine metatarsi. A 15 mm bone segment was directly replaced with a hydroxyapatite scaffold and stabilized by an instrumented Ilizarov-type external fixator. Several in vivo monitoring techniques were employed to assess the mechanical and structural progress of the tissue. RESULTS The applied surgical protocol succeeded in combining external fixators and subject-specific bioceramic scaffolds without causing fatal fractures of the implant due to stress concentrator. The bearing capacity of the treated limb was initially altered, quantifying a 28-56% reduction of the ground reaction force, which gradually normalized during the consolidation phase. A faster recovery was reported in the bearing capacity, stiffening and bone mineral density of the callus. It acquired a predominant mechanical role over the fixator in the distribution of internal forces after one post-surgical month. CONCLUSION The bioceramic scaffold significantly accelerated in vivo the bone formation compared to other traditional alternatives in the literature (e.g., distraction osteogenesis). In addition, the implemented assessment techniques allowed an accurate quantitative evaluation of the bone regeneration through mechanical and imaging parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Blázquez-Carmona
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain.
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.
| | - Juan Mora-Macías
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Francisco J Martínez-Vázquez
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Juan Morgaz
- Departamento Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jaime Domínguez
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Esther Reina-Romo
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
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Jeyaraman M, Jayakumar T, Jeyaraman N, Nallakumarasamy A. Sensor Technology in Fracture Healing. Indian J Orthop 2023; 57:1196-1202. [PMID: 37525725 PMCID: PMC10386990 DOI: 10.1007/s43465-023-00933-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Introduction SMART sensor technology may provide the solution to bridge the gap between the current radiographic determination of fracture healing and clinical assessment. The displacement and rigidity between the fracture ends can be accurately measured using strain gauges. Progressively increasing stiffness is a sign of fracture consolidation which can be monitored using sensors. The design of standard orthopaedic implants can remain the same and needs no major modifications as the sensor can be mounted onto the implant without occupying much space. Data regarding various fracture morphologies and their strain levels throughout the fracture healing process may help develop AI algorithms that can subsequently be used to optimise implant design/materials. Materials and Methods The literature search was performed in PubMed, PubMed Central, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for reviewing and evaluating the published scientific data regarding sensor technology in fracture healing. Results and Interpretation SMART sensor technology comes with a variety of uses such as determining fracture healing progress, predicting early implant failure, and determining fractures liable for non-union to exemplify a few. The main limitations are that it is still in its inception and needs extensive refinement before it becomes widely and routinely used in clinical practice. Nevertheless, with continuous advances in microprocessor technology, research designs, and additive manufacturing, the utilisation and application of SMART implants in the field of trauma and orthopaedic surgery are constantly growing. Conclusion Mass production of such SMART implants will reduce overall production costs and see its use in routine clinical practice in the future and is likely to make a significant contribution in the next industrial revolution termed 'Industry 5.0' which aims at personalised patient-specific implants and devices. SMART sensor technology may, therefore, herald a new era in the field of orthopaedic trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhan Jeyaraman
- Department of Orthopaedics, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600056 India
| | - Tarun Jayakumar
- Department of Orthopaedics, KIMS-Sunshine Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana 500003 India
| | - Naveen Jeyaraman
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu 603108 India
| | - Arulkumar Nallakumarasamy
- Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751019 India
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Blázquez-Carmona P, Sanz-Herrera JA, Martínez-Vázquez FJ, Domínguez J, Reina-Romo E. Structural optimization of 3D-printed patient-specific ceramic scaffolds for in vivo bone regeneration in load-bearing defects. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2021; 121:104613. [PMID: 34126507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2021.104613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Tissue engineering has recently gained popularity as an alternative to autografts to stimulate bone tissue regeneration through structures called scaffolds. Most of the in vivo experiments on long-bony defects use internally-stabilized generic scaffolds. Despite the wide variety of computational methods, a standardized protocol is required to optimize ceramic scaffolds for load-bearing bony defects stabilized with flexible fixations. An optimization problem was defined for applications to sheep metatarsus defects. It covers biological parameters (porosity, pore size, and the specific surface area) and mechanical constraints based on in vivo and in vitro results reported in the literature. The optimized parameters (59.30% of porosity, 5768.91 m-1 of specific surface area, and 360.80 μm of pore size) and the compressive strength of the selected structure were validated in vitro by means of tomographic images and compression tests of six 3D-printed samples. Divergences between the design and measured values of the optimized parameters, mainly due to manufacturing defects, are consistent with the previous studies. Using the mixed experimental-mathematical scaffold-design procedure described, they could be implanted in vivo with instrumented external fixators, therefore facilitating biomechanical monitoring of the regeneration process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Blázquez-Carmona
- E.T.S.I, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain.
| | | | | | - Jaime Domínguez
- E.T.S.I, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain.
| | - Esther Reina-Romo
- E.T.S.I, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain.
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Barcik J, Ernst M, Dlaska CE, Drenchev L, Zeiter S, Epari DR, Windolf M. Programable Active Fixator System for Systematic In Vivo Investigation of Bone Healing Processes. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 21:E17. [PMID: 33375087 PMCID: PMC7792812 DOI: 10.3390/s21010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This manuscript introduces a programable active bone fixator system that enables systematic investigation of bone healing processes in a sheep animal model. In contrast to previous systems, this solution combines the ability to precisely control the mechanical conditions acting within a fracture with continuous monitoring of the healing progression and autonomous operation of the system throughout the experiment. The active fixator system was implemented on a double osteotomy model that shields the experimental fracture from the influence of the animal's functional loading. A force sensor was integrated into the fixator to continuously measure stiffness of the repair tissue as an indicator for healing progression. A dedicated control unit was developed that allows programing of different loading protocols which are later executed autonomously by the active fixator. To verify the feasibility of the system, it was implanted in two sheep with different loading protocols, mimicking immediate and delayed weight-bearing, respectively. The implanted devices operated according to the programmed protocols and delivered seamless data over the whole course of the experiment. The in vivo trial confirmed the feasibility of the system. Hence, it can be applied in further preclinical studies to better understand the influence of mechanical conditions on fracture healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Barcik
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; (M.E.); (S.Z.); (M.W.)
- Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Metal Science ‘Acad. A. Balevski’, Shipchenski prohod 67, 1574 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Manuela Ernst
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; (M.E.); (S.Z.); (M.W.)
| | - Constantin E. Dlaska
- Orthopaedic Research Institute of Queensland, 7 Turner Street, Townsville, QLD 4812, Australia;
| | - Ludmil Drenchev
- Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Metal Science ‘Acad. A. Balevski’, Shipchenski prohod 67, 1574 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Stephan Zeiter
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; (M.E.); (S.Z.); (M.W.)
| | - Devakara R. Epari
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, George Street 2, Brisbane City, QLD 4000, Australia;
| | - Markus Windolf
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; (M.E.); (S.Z.); (M.W.)
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Blázquez-Carmona P, Mora-Macías J, Morgaz J, Fernández-Sarmiento JA, Domínguez J, Reina-Romo E. Mechanobiology of Bone Consolidation During Distraction Osteogenesis: Bone Lengthening Vs. Bone Transport. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 49:1209-1221. [PMID: 33111968 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02665-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Bone lengthening and bone transport are regeneration processes that commonly rely on distraction osteogenesis, a widely accepted surgical procedure to deal with numerous bony pathologies. Despite the extensive study in the literature of the influence of biomechanical factors, a lack of knowledge about their mechanobiological differences prevents a clinical particularization. Bone lengthening treatments were performed on sheep metatarsus by reproducing the surgical and biomechanical protocol of previous bone transport experiments. Several in vivo monitoring techniques were employed to build an exhaustive comparison: gait analysis, radiographic and CT assessment, force measures through the fixation, or mechanical characterization of the new tissue. A significant initial loss of the bearing capacity, quantified by the ground reaction forces and the limb contact time with the ground, is suffered by the bone lengthening specimens. The potential effects of this anomaly on the musculoskeletal force distribution and the evolution of the bone callus elastic modulus over time are also analyzed. Imaging techniques also seem to reveal lower bone volume in the bone lengthening callus than in the bone transport one, but an equivalent mineralization rate. The simultaneous quantification of biological and mechanical parameters provides valuable information for the daily clinical routine and numerical tools development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Blázquez-Carmona
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain.
| | - Juan Mora-Macías
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Juan Morgaz
- Departamento Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Ctra. Nacional IV-A, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Km 396, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - José Andrés Fernández-Sarmiento
- Departamento Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Ctra. Nacional IV-A, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Km 396, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jaime Domínguez
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Esther Reina-Romo
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092, Seville, Spain
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