Interference screws 3D printed with polymer-based biocomposites (HA/PLA/PCL)

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction frequently employs the bioabsorbable interference screw, which is 3D printed with biocomposite filaments. The purpose of this research was to construct interference screws using 3D printing filaments (HA, PLA, and PCL) at different nozzle temperatures. In this experiment, nozzle temperatures of 190, 195, 200, and 205 degrees C were used. Density tests, torsion tests, fracture analysis, and biodegradable tests were also used to characterize interference screws. A simple finite element model (FEM) of tibial screw fixation in hamstring ACL reconstruction was also presented. The interference screw was also compared to a commercial one. Within the maximum and minimum values of cortical bone density, the density of the interference screw prepared in this study is the best fit for implants. The current model can predict stress in tunnel wall regions caused by screw fixation. However, the clamping quality of the commercial screw in the clamping failure area for torque efficiency was better than that of the interference screw produced in this study. Commercial interference screws deteriorated the most quickly. The method has shown the ability to manufacture interference screw components with improved biodegradability.

Automated summary

This research aimed to construct interference screws using 3D printing filaments (HA, PLA, and PCL) at different nozzle temperatures. Various tests were conducted to characterize the screws, including density tests, torsion tests, fracture analysis, and biodegradable tests. A finite element model was also established and compared with a commercial screw. The study found that the interference screw prepared in this study had the best fit for implants in terms of density within the range of cortical bone density. However, the commercial screw outperformed the interference screw in terms of torque efficiency in the clamping failure area and showed faster deterioration.