Additively Manufactured Absorbable Porous Metal Implants – Processing, Alloying and Corrosion Behavior

Treating large bone defects is still a clinical challenge without perfect solution, mainly due to the unavailability of suitable implants. Additively manufactured (AM) absorbable porous metals provide unparalleled opportunities realize challenging requirements for bone-mimetic Firstly, multi-scale geometries such implants can be customized mimic micro-architecture and mechanical properties human bone. The interconnected structure additionally increases surface area facilitate adhesion proliferation cells. Finally, their absorption are tunable maintain structural integrity implant throughout healing process, ensuring sufficient loadbearing when needed full disintegration after job done. Such combination paves way complete regeneration remodeling. It important thoroughly characterize biodegradation behavior, properties, ability developing ideal metal We review state-of-the-art by selective laser melting (SLM), with focus on geometrical design, material type, processing, post-treatment. impact latter aspects resulting cytocompatibility will also briefly discussed. In comparison solid inert counterparts, AM (APMs) have shown many unique hold tremendous potential further optimize application-specific performance flexible design. highlight challenges in adopting APMs future Orthopedic solutions.