Functional Characteristics and Mechanical Performance of PCU Composites for Knee Meniscus Replacement

Abstract

The potential use of fiber-reinforced based polycarbonate-urethanes (PCUs) as candidate meniscal substitutes was investigated in this study. Mechanical test pieces were designed and fabricated using a compression molding technique. Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers were impregnated into PCU matrices, and their mechanical and microstructural properties evaluated. In particular, the tensile moduli of the PCUs were found unsuitable, since they were comparatively lower than that of the meniscus, and may not be able to replicate the inherent role of the meniscus effectively. However, the inclusion of fibers produced a substantial increment in the tensile modulus, to a value within a close range measured for meniscus tissues. Increments of up to 227% were calculated with a PCU fiber reinforcement composite. The embedded fibers in the PCU composites enhanced the fracture mechanisms by preventing the brittle failure and plastic deformation exhibited in fractured PCUs. The behavior of the composites in compression varied with respect to the PCU matrix materials. The mechanical characteristics demonstrated by the developed PCU composites suggest that fiber reinforcements have a considerable potential to duplicate the distinct and multifaceted biomechanical roles of the meniscus.

Development of meniscus‐inspired 3D‐printed PCL scaffolds engineered with chitosan/extracellular matrix hydrogel

“…Here, compressive modulus of PCL 0.2 constructs was 5.65 MPa (Figure 1E) and higher than that of native human meniscus (0.1-1.13 MPa). 31 Regarding mechanical properties, it should be underlined that, measured compressive modulus is not comparable with native meniscus. Definitely, common compression stress-relaxation test, used for gaining a sense of the mechanical properties of 3D-printed scaffolds, is not representative of the dynamic mechanical environment of natural menisci.…”

Meniscus regeneration by 3D printing technologies: Current advances and future perspectives

“…PCU) are more durable, with good mechanical properties, hydrolytic resistance, and low friction properties. 165 , 166 Zhu et al, 167 , 168 focused on design and biomechanical characterization of PCU-based porous meniscal structures fabricated using triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS). Precise control over structure configuration seems to be beneficial to adjust mechanical stiffness of the meniscal implant.…”

3D Bioprinted Implants for Cartilage Repair in Intervertebral Discs and Knee Menisci

“…There is still much work to be done in the identification of polymer blends that accurately mimic the mechanical properties and biomechanics of natural cartilage, as well as blends that provide high load-bearing and wear-resistant capabilities. As menisci are responsible for stabilizing joints and acting as shock absorbers, mechanical properties remain one of the most important characteristics to consider when designing appropriate implants for meniscal repairs (Inyang and Vaughan, 2020). This is also of particular concern for IVDs, which differ in anatomy and function by location in the spinal column.…”