(172c) Biomimetic Artificial Knee Meniscus

Meniscal tears are among the most common knee injuries, affecting approximately one million people in the U.S. each year. The meniscus plays a crucial role in providing high lubricity and shock absorbance in the knee, thereby maintaining the health of the knee cartilage. Depending on the severity of the meniscus tear, treatment options include direct repair, partial or total removal, or implantation of artificial meniscus. However, these treatments have limitations, and patients with meniscus tears are at risk of developing osteoarthritis (the gradual deterioration of knee cartilage over time). As a result, there is a growing demand for an artificial meniscus that can replicate the functions of the natural meniscus. This study proposes the use of porous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as a potential material for a meniscus implant. PDMS offers excellent biocompatibility and has a similar elasticity to natural cartilage. By making the PDMS porous, it is possible to reduce the coefficient of friction (CoF) compared to solid molded artificial implants such as the NUsurface. The research objectives of this study include fabricating a porous PDMS as the artificial meniscus using 3D printing and photolithography, characterizing its friction properties, measuring its mechanical properties, and evaluating its performance through implantation in a rabbit knee. The proposed synthetic meniscus technology is considered a disruptive innovation in the field of knee joint treatment. It is expected to be less invasive compared to traditional knee replacements and provide a long-term solution compared to knee gel injections. By developing an artificial meniscus that closely mimics the properties and functions of the natural meniscus, this research aims to offer an improved treatment option for patients with meniscus tears and potentially reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the long term.