The preparation of multifunctional nanocomposite scaffolds for use in bone tissue engineering

Abstract

Every year millions of people suffer with bone defects which can arise from injuries, oncological resection and progressive degenerative diseases. When these problems arise bone can normally repair itself, however, if the damage is beyond natural repair by the body either an autograft or allograft must be carried out. An autograft, also known as autologous bone graft involves taking non-essential bone from another part of that patient’s body and using it to bridge the gap in the damaged area. An allograft also known as an allogenic bone graft is an alternative method which involves using bone which is harvested from a donor. Both of the above methods have drawbacks, these include an increased risk of infection, limited supply of non-essential bone, risk of disease transmission not to mention another surgery procedure which results in increased pain and healing time for the patient