Fitness of Custom 3D-Printed Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds for Furcation Defects: A Preliminary Investigation Using Pig Jaws

Abstract (Word Count: 202) Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether 3D-printed (3DP) hydroxyapatite (HA)-based scaffolds can be customized to fit furcation defects. Materials and Methods: Two experimental degree II furcation defects were created in pig jaws, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were taken before and after defect creation. Computer-aided design (CAD) models of scaffolds were produced by subtracting two CBCT images. For each defect, one 3DP resin block printed using a stereolithographic 3D printer served as the control, and three 3DP HA-based scaffolds were printed using an extrusion-based 3DP bioprinter. The resultant 3DP resin blocks and HA-based scaffolds were placed in the defects, and micro-CT images were taken to assess the fitness of the scaffolds. Results: Compared with the CAD models, the 3DP resin blocks and HA-based scaffolds showed approximately 90% and > 80% volume stability, respectively. Regarding the furcation defects, the linear adaptation ratio was approximately 90% for the 3DP resin blocks and > 70% for the 3DP HA-based scaffolds. The fitness of the 3DP HA-based scaffolds was inferior, with a notable depression in the central area. Conclusion: The 3DP HA-based scaffolds exhibited acceptable volume stability and fitness for the furcation defect and could be a potential strategy for promoting furcation defect regeneration.