A novel vacuum assisted scaffold system for bony regeneration

Worldwide, there is a tremendous need to improve the healing of long bone defects and fractures. The purpose of this study was to explore the theoretical feasibility of a novel approach to bone healing. Using a vacuum assisted scaffold system, we performed a theoretical analysis and computational modeling. Results indicate that a standard extracorporeal device can create enough negative pressure to develop a pressure drop across a scaffold that will enhance fluid flow through the scaffold. The velocity of fluid flow is affected by fibrin deposition and scaffold permeability. The fluid flow is predicted to create shear stress that would increase cell growth and migration.