Strategies for characterizing porous additively manufactured implants

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In our aging population, conditions such as osteoporosis (OP) which is classified by a decrease in bone mineral density and associated systemic changes in bone metabolism, are of concern for dental implant success. New implant design strategies are needed to enhance bone formation. Additive manufacturing or 3D printing presents an approach to creating novel porous implant geometries, but the role of these pores on bone repair in healthy individuals is not well understood. This proposal seeks to better understand implant design on peri-implant bone repair by developing a multi-modal platform to characterize bone formation including assessing the cellular, molecular, and multi-length scale structural formation of bone within porous metallic implants. It will incorporate high-resolution electron microscopy strategies with mechanical testing, gene response, and histology to elucidate the connection between implant design, bone structure, and cellular function. This work will develop a platform for the characterization of complex biomaterials systems which is of high relevance to the biomedical imaging sector in Canada. Ultimately, this work will lead to the improved design and longevity of additively manufactured implants for corrective procedures in dentistry and orthopaedics, reducing healthcare costs and directly benefiting the well-being of all Canadians, particularly our aging demographic.