Three-dimensional bioprinting utilizing sacrificial material support and longitudinal printability evaluation through volumetric imaging

In three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting, the internal channel network is vital for nutrient and oxygen transport, crucial for cell survival and tissue construction. However, bioinks' poor mechanical properties hinder precise control over these networks. Advancements in 3D printing strategies, structure characterization, and deformation monitoring can improve hydrogel scaffolds with interconnected channels. Using label-free, non-invasive, in-situ optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, we monitored the dynamic deformation of 3D bioprinted hydrogel scaffolds. We validated sacrificial materials' role in enhancing internal channels and introduced deformation characteristics, lateral pore ratio and pore-specific surface area as new parameters. Results from cell-laden hydrogels show that 3D bioprinting with sacrificial materials achieves high fidelity, minimizing collapse, inter-filament fusion, and enhancing lateral porosity. Furthermore, these promote cell proliferation and cell viability.