Development of Orthopedic Implants with Highly Biocompatible Ti Alloys

Abstract

The material properties of metallic materials used for manufacturing of orthopedic implants are important for understanding the factors affecting the biological, biomechanical, and biochemical performances of orthopedic implants. This chapter will provide the test method for characterizing potential materials for metallic orthopedic device such as artificial joints and osteosynthesis. Particularly, the alloy design and low-cost manufacturing processes of titanium (Ti) metals, cytocompatibility of metals, biocompatibility and corrosion resistance of Ti alloys, and mechanical compatibility of orthopedic implants are summarized. Future trends on both materials and biological evaluation methods are also introduced here. Three-dimensional (3D) layer manufacturing technologies are expected as new technologies for manufacturing, artificial hip joint stems, acetabular cups, and femoral components and tibial trays of artificial knee joints among others. 3D layer manufacturing technologies are also expected for manufacturing porous materials such as acetabular components. It is possible to obtain marketing approval for highly biocompatible implants that are optimized for the skeletal structures and needs of patients by combining 3D layer manufacturing technologies with imaging technologies such as computed tomography (CT).