Polymeric Meniscus Replacement Attached with Antiparallel-Barbs Protruding from Anchor

Abstract

There are over 1 million meniscus tears treated each year in the United States. Current interventions include sutures and partial/ total menisectomies, which can leave patients with impaired or limited shock absorbance in the knee, increasing pain levels and risk of osteoarthritis while reducing mobility. While a handful of artificial menisci are currently in development, there are no methods for attaching these implants to the tibial plateau without damaging the bone. To resolve this issue, the Bee’s Knees capstone team proposes an innovative approach to attaching our artificial meniscus to the tibial plateau using anti-parallel-stinger-like protrusions coated in growth factors. Our device will consist of polymeric elements that achieve force-distribution similar to the anatomical meniscus, stability through the aforementioned protrusion, and integration through biological components. Prior to physical prototyping, the team will perform simulations on materials and fixation for static and fatigue analysis using SolidWork and hydrogel diffusion analysis using MATLAB and Ansys. Physical prototyping will consist of testing the attachment mechanisms and material properties of the device overall, manufacturing the device, and using 3D printing and hydrogel synthesis to create the skeleton of the final product. The estimated cost to create a growth factor-coated 3D-printed artificial meniscus is an estimated $3124.00; however, the team is going to venture a method of manufacturing that limits costs to under $200.00, which will primarily be spent on 3D printed polymer. For the hydrogel, the team is investigating labs that will assist in the manufacturing process. The intended final prototype will include the meniscus body, attachments, and a plan to create the necessary hydrogels.

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