Comparative Evaluation of Three Different Collagen-Ceramic Composite Scaffolds for Use as Alternatives to Bone Grafts

Abstract

Aim of Study: This paper reports a comparative study conducted on novel Collagen-Ceramic composite scaffolds. Three scaffolds were compared based on pore size, porosity, and thickness of the collagen network. Characterisation of these properties will facilitate cell-specific optimisation of these scaffolds for use as successful clinical alternatives to auto- and allo-graft procedures. Methods Collagen-based scaffolds were fabricated using different forms of calcium phosphate and freezedrying methods. Scaffold A, the control, was made with calcium phosphate R powder and lyophilised using a stainless steel freezing tray. Scaffold B was made with calcium phosphate S and lyophilised using a stainless steel freezing tray. However scaffold C was made with calcium phosphate S and lyophilised using a polysulphone freezing tray. Results The results indicated that scaffold A had the minimum pore diameter for cell penetration and proper vascularisation of the ingrown tissue, but is less than ideal for optimum bone growth. Scaffold B showed a pore diameter that is almost three times larger and collagen network struts that were three times thicker than that of scaffold A. Scaffold C showed marked increase in porosity compared with scaffold B, but a thinner collagen frame. Conclusion study has helped to compare and contrast some of the different combinations of freezedrying treatments and calcium phosphate types, showing that numerous types of collagen scaffolds can be developed and customised to help in the treatment of various types of bone abnormalities. The large pore size and increased collagen frame thickness of Scaffold B appear to make it the most promising of the three scaffolds to be used in future bone graft procedures.