Engineering Smart 3D-Printed Antibacterial Bone Scaffolds: Stimuli-Responsive Release and Personalized Therapy for Infected Bone Defects.

Abstract

Infectious bone defects present a multifaceted orthopedic challenge, marked by impaired bone repair, antibiotic resistance, and recurrent infections. The integration of 3D printing technology with bone tissue engineering has emerged as a promising approach to address this challenge. This comprehensive review evaluates recent advancements in 3D-printed antibacterial bone scaffolds for the management of infectious bone defects, focusing on achieving a dynamic synergistic control of anti-infection and bone regeneration through innovative scaffold design. The review begins by elucidating the pathological mechanisms underlying infectious bone defects and the limitations of current antibacterial strategies. It highlights advancements in the intelligent structural design and responsive antibacterial properties of 3D-printed scaffolds. Leveraging their precise and customizable structures, these scaffolds provide significant advantages in simultaneously promoting bone regeneration and effectively combating infections, thereby introducing new strategies to address antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, the review discusses the distinct benefits of 3D printing technology in customizing treatments to meet individual patient needs, thereby optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Finally, it examines the potential clinical applications of this technique, aiming to deliver safer and more effective personalized interventions for infectious bone defects.