Paulina Bargallo Gonzalez Lugo, SEAS ’25, Mexico City, Mexico
This summer, I had the privilege of being part of the HAST Lab, which is within the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory. Under the guidance of Dr. Michael Hast, a Research Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, I collaborated with Hisham Ayasrah, a bioengineering master’s student, on a project that aimed to develop scaffolds for critical-sized defect repairs using 3D-printed PCL (polycaprolactone) scaffolds, a project we affectionately named “Bonuts.” Critical-sized bone defects represent a significant challenge in orthopaedic surgery, often resulting from severe fractures, oncological procedures, or nonunions. Traditionally, these injuries are addressed through a two-step surgical procedure known as the Masquelet technique. This process, while effective, involves a temporary spacer and a subsequent operation to replace it with bone grafting material. The two-step nature of the procedure increases the risk of infection, patient morbidity, and healthcare costs.
Our research aimed to explore the potential of PCL scaffolds to address these critical defects in a single surgical procedure. PCL is a biocompatible and biodegradable material with a history of successful use in fracture reconstruction devices. Throughout the summer, we focused on understanding various parameters that influence the effectiveness of PCL scaffolds, including printing parameters, mechanical properties, and biological function.
This experience has been incredibly eye-opening and transformative for me. Before joining the HAST Lab, I had not considered a career in the orthopaedic field, but this opportunity has shown me the vast potential for innovation and improvement in this area. Working closely with a supportive and knowledgeable PI like Dr. Hast has not only deepened my curiosity but also boosted my confidence in my abilities. I learned to be more independent in conducting lab experiments and developed the courage for taking initiative.
One of the most enriching aspects of this experience was the collaborative environment. Unlike my previous research experiences, where I followed instructions closely, this summer allowed me to engage in meaningful discussions with my project partner, Hisham. We shared our thoughts, made decisions together, that contributed to the project’s success. This collaborative approach was a refreshing change and has significantly enhanced my research skills and confidence.
In conclusion, my time at the HAST Lab has been a pivotal moment in my academic and professional journey. It has not only solidified my interest in orthopaedics but also provided me with valuable skills and experiences that I will carry forward into my future endeavors. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.
This is part of a series of posts by recipients of the 2024 Career Services Summer Funding Grant. We’ve asked funding recipients to reflect on their summer experiences and talk about the industries in which they spent their summer. You can read the entire series here
