Linguistic Analysis Identifies Emergent Biomaterial Fabrication Trends for Orthopaedic Applications.

The expanse of publications in tissue engineering and orthopaedics over the past 20 years presents an opportunity to probe emergent trends in the field to better guide future technologies that can make an impact on musculoskeletal therapies. Leveraging this trove of knowledge, we developed a hierarchical systematic search method and trend analysis using connected network mapping of key terms. Within discrete time intervals, we identified an accelerated publication rate for the anatomic tissue engineering of osteochondral defects, tendons, menisci, and entheses. Within these growing fields, we extracted the top-listed key terms and stratified the terms into evident categories, such as biomaterials, delivery method, or 3d printing and biofabrication. We then identified which categories decreased, remained constant, increased, or emerged over time, identifying the specific emergent categories currently driving innovation in orthopaedic repair technologies. Together, these data demonstrate a significant convergence of material types and descriptors used across tissue types. From this convergence, we formulate design criteria to support future research of anatomic constructs that mimic both the form and function of native tissues. In summary, this review identifies large-scale trends and predicts new directions in orthopaedics that will define the future materials and technologies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.