Development of novel hybrid 3D-printed degradable artificial joints incorporating electrospun pharmaceutical- and growth factor-loaded nanofibers for small joint reconstruction

Abstract

Abstract Background Small joint reconstruction remains a challenge and can lead to prosthesis-related complications, mainly because of the suboptimal performance of the silicone materials used and adverse host reactions. In this study, we developed hybrid three-dimensionally printed polycaprolactone (PCL) artificial joints and electrospun drug- and biomolecule-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanofibers for small joint reconstruction. Methods The mechanical properties of the degradable joints and the drug discharge patterns of the nanofibers were evaluated. Moreover, he drug discharge patterns in vivo and the efficacy of the hybrid joint/nanofibers were assessed using a rabbit knee joint model. Results The empirical data showed that 3D-printed PCL joints exhibited good mechanical and fatigue properties. The drug-eluting nanofibers sustainably released teicoplanin, ceftazidime, and ketorolac in vitro for over 30, 19, and 30 d, respectively. Furthermore, the nanofibers discharged high levels of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and connective tissue growth factors for more than 30 d. An in vivo animal test showed that nanofiber-loaded joints released high concentrations of antibiotics and analgesics in the rabbit model for 28 d. The animals in the drug-loaded degradable joint group showed greater activity counts than those in the surgery-only group. Conclusions The experimental data of this study illustrated that degradable joints with sustained discharge of biomolecules may be utilized in small joint arthroplasty.