Optimal Extraktion av Ø3 mm Osteokondrala Pluggar

Sammanfattning

The Unit for Clinical Epidemiology at Lund University conducts research into the molecular mechanisms of osteoarthritis. To facilitate this research, standardized tissue samples in the form of small osteochondral plugs must be extracted from larger, heterogeneous donor samples obtained from the Lund Tissue Bank. However, human bone samples are inherently hard and fragile. Current suboptimal extraction methods lead to uncontrolled fracturing and inconsistent alignment angles. These drawbacks result in a low yield of viable plugs and an inefficient use of precious donor tissue. This report aims to develop new concepts and methods for optimal sample extraction. Through extensive investigation, the physical limitations of the tissue were identified to lay the foundation for development. A punching force was determined to be the most viable extraction method to avoid compromising the sample’s molecular integrity. Conse- quently, this work introduces an optimized extraction workflow consisting of three conceptualized, cooperating tools. The method first addresses donor sample preparation using a fixating cage integrated with a saw blade guide. Subsequently, a robust punch tool tripod was implemented, featuring force-compatible sample positioning. The process is completed by a modified punch tool with a minimized cutting edge angle and a focused contact point which enables a controlled crack propagation. The conceptual system is expected to minimize radial expansion and maximize the output of high quality plugs. The evaluation of these concepts is based on established biomechanical theories with the intention of verifying them through experimental testing in future work.