Next-Generation Implants for Osteoarthritis and Joint Damage

Miguel Gama.

Universidade do Minho, Portugal.

Osteoarthritis and other joint disorders affect millions of people worldwide, causing persistent pain, reduced mobility and disability. Current treatments often require invasive surgery and may not fully restore damaged cartilage and bone. This project aims to develop a regenerative implant that recreates the structure of natural joint tissues and guides the body’s own cells towards repair.

The implant is based on a highly biocompatible biomaterial shaped using laser technology to create a porous scaffold that closely mimics natural tissue. It combines a bone-like layer and a cartilage-like layer, creating an environment that promotes the regeneration of both tissues. The technology is patient-customisable, scalable, and cost-effective, supporting broader clinical application.

This innovative device is designed to promote simultaneous repair of cartilage and bone, improving long-term integration, and reducing complications associated with current procedures. Ultimately, this approach could improve quality of life for people with joint diseases.

• Alexandre Carvalho, Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal.

• Silvia Alexandra Rodrigues Mendes Ferreira, i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde da Universidade do Porto - Associação, Portugal.

• José Eduardo Pereira, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal.

STAGE 2