Abstract
In this work, the design and development of a bioabsorbable interference screw used in Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is proposed. This interference screw is perforated along its length with holes that have an elliptical geometry to allow a calcium triphosphate-based bone cement to be introduced. Several screw geometries, with different thread geometries, different pitch, different drive geometries and different hole geometries, were created using a 3D CAD modeling software and analyzed using a finite element analysis (FEA) program to assess which geometry provides the most favorable mechanical performance to the implant. Selected screw geometries were produced using fused filament fabrication (FFF) and insertion tests were performed. During insertion, screws were tested in holes with variable diameters, and the maximum torque achieved in each test was recorded. Tests show that most failures started in the areas close to one of the holes of the implant. In the future, results should be improved to allow FFF bioabsorbable interference screws to be a solution that promotes early rehabilitation during ACL reconstruction.