Exploring the frontiers of metal additive manufacturing in orthopaedic implant development

Abstract

This paper provides a thorough analysis of recent advancements and emerging trends in the integration of metal additive manufacturing (AM) within orthopedic implant development. With an emphasis on the use of various metals and alloys, including titanium, cobalt-chromium, and nickel-titanium, the review looks at their characteristics and how they relate to the creation of various orthopedic implants, such as spinal implants, hip and knee replacements, and cranial-facial reconstructions. The study highlights how metal additive manufacturing (AM) can revolutionize the field by enabling customized implant designs that take patient anatomical variances into account. The review discusses the drawbacks of conventional manufacturing techniques and emphasizes the benefits of metal additive manufacturing (AM), such as increased design flexibility and decreased material waste. Important material selection factors, including mechanical qualities and biocompatibility, are covered in relation to metal additive manufacturing applications. The work ends with a summary of the issues facing metal AM today, such as surface finish and material certification, and suggestions for future developments, like the creation of advanced materials and the application of AI to design optimization.

Keywords

• Additive manufacturing
• Metals
• Implant
• Titanium
• Biocompatibility