A Method for Modeling Time-Dependant Mechanical Properties of Tissue Scaffolds

The mechanical properties of a tissue scaffold must match those of the tissue at the site of implantation. Thus, knowing the mechanical properties of the scaffold is essential to a successful implantation. However, this has proven to be challenging since the mechanical properties are not constant, but dependent on time because of cell growth on the scaffold as well as scaffold degradation. Due to the complexity involved, developing a model for the mechanical properties is difficult. In this paper, we propose a method based on the concept of finite element model updating, upon which the time-dependent properties of scaffolds can be represented. The basic components of this method as well as its implementation are presented and discussed, along with the key issues identified in this particular research topic.