Engineering Graduate Student Aims to Improve Treatment for Meniscus Injuries

Photo Submitted

Graduate student Raíssa Araujo Borges demonstrates the functions of a 3D printer to her labmates.

For athletes with a torn meniscus in the knee, surgical repair is the most common treatment option. However, full meniscus replacements are offered in limited clinical trials to those with the most severe injuries. Raíssa Araujo Borges, a mechanical engineering graduate student, is working to improve replacement treatment options by improving meniscus implants.

Currently, implants are made by molding thermoplastic material into a solid meniscus with a predetermined fixed shape. Araujo is exploring the feasibility of using 3D printing to create the implant.

Using 3D printing would result in a shape that is patient-specific and has desired porosity to retain body fluid for better lubrication. Additionally, the 3D-printed meniscus generates less waste and has a fast delivery time, ultimately resulting in a long-lasting implant with a faster recovery time for the patient.

For her research, Araujo combines a variety of biocompatible polymers to create the feeding material for the 3D printer. The polymers are melted by the 3D printer to produce the desired implant shape.

Though she's made strides, Araujo said there is still a lot of work to be done.

"The surface finish on the implants has to be the best possible, and I'm working to improve that," she said. "I am still trying to figure out the best blend of polymers to use."

Araujo, a native of Brazil, said her research interests paired with her desire to study abroad led her to the University of Arkansas.

"I have wanted to study abroad since I was a child," she said. "When I began looking at universities in the United States, I really liked the research happening in the mechanical engineering department and liked the location of the university, so I thought it would be a good fit for me."

Outside the lab, Araujo's varied interests occupy most of her waking hours. She is the president of the Brazilian Student Organization, is a member of a local ballet company and is an active participant in the International Culture Team. Managing so many responsibilities is not easy, but Araujo's passion for her interests keeps her motivated.

"I try to be as organized as I can be; I think that's how I manage things," she said. "I also think I sleep less than most other people."

Araujo, who is advised by Min Zou, is on track to complete her master's degree in summer 2017.