Which process is primarily used to create a scaffold with controlled porosity?

Lyophilization, also known as freeze-drying, is a process that involves freezing a material and then removing the water by sublimation. This technique is particularly effective for creating scaffolds with controlled porosity because the freezing step allows for the formation of ice crystals, which create pores when removed. The size and distribution of these pores can be precisely controlled by adjusting parameters such as the freezing rate and the concentration of the polymer solution before lyophilization.

The ability to manipulate porosity is crucial in tissue engineering, as it impacts cell infiltration, nutrient transport, and overall scaffold performance in supporting tissue regeneration. Lyophilization produces scaffolds that can mimic the natural extracellular matrix, offering an ideal environment for cell adherence, proliferation, and differentiation.