The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

The growth plate is essential for bone growth but remains highly vulnerable to fractures. During healing, angiogenesis-mediated infiltration of osteoprogenitor cells often leads to bone bridge formation, causing secondary disorders such as limb length discrepancy. Current clinical treatments using materials frequently fail due to uncontrolled postoperative angiogenesis and subsequent reformation of the bone bridge. To overcome these limitations, we developed an anti-angiogenic hydrogel system using a photocrosslinking method to ensure structural stability and retention at the defect site. To actively suppress vascular formation, Aflibercept was integrated into the hydrogel. This platform serves as a physical barrier to block vascular invasion while facilitating the localized delivery of Aflibercept. Our results demonstrate that this strategy effectively prevents bone bridge formation, suggesting significant therapeutic potential for maintaining normal bone growth following injury.