Fabrication and characterization of poly-d-l-lactide/nano-hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds with poly (ethylene glycol) coating and dexamethasone releasing

The control of pore size and structure, drug release capacity, and biodegradation of scaffolds is of importance for bone tissue engineering. In this study, a technique combining polymer coagulation, cold compression molding, salt particulate leaching and drug coating method was developed to fabricate poly (ethylene glycol)/dexamethasone coated porous poly-d-l-lactide/nano-hydroxyapatite (PDLLA/nano-HAp) scaffolds. These scaffolds possess homogenous pore networks with high porosity (66–82%) and controllable pore size (200–300 μm). The compressive moduli and strength of the scaffolds after incorporation of nano-HAp were improved by 50% and 20%, respectively. The surface hydrophilicity of the scaffold was significantly improved by poly (ethylene glycol)/dexamethasone coating and nano-HAp addition, leading to a higher initial drug loading amount. The results showed that the drug release behavior of the scaffolds after 35-day immersion in water could be adjusted by varying the porosity level and by incorporation of 20 wt.% of nano-HAp.

► Method with salt particle leaching, polymer coagulation & cold compression molding. ► Producing composite scaffolds with homogeneous pore network & adjustable pore size. ► Adjusting drug release behavior of the scaffolds by varying porosity & nano-HAp. ► Enhancing the mechanical properties of the scaffolds with nano-HAp addition. ► Improving surface hydrophilicity of the scaffold through PEG/Dex coating & nono-HAp.