A Review on the Microstructural and Biomedical Properties of Implants Manufactured Using Additive Manufacturing

The advancement of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology has made it possible to build porous metal scaffolds with high quality. Unlike traditional techniques, the AM of porous scaffolds is distinguished by a precise and controlled manufacturing process that allows regular pore distribution at the micro-scale and the formation of predesigned implants that are tailored for specific patients. Pores serve as the microenvironment of ingrowing bone, and they must have enough room for cells to adhere and proliferate. The impact of AM porous metal scaffold on bone ingrowth is influenced by the action of cells and bone ingrowth. In the field of orthopaedics, AM uses have greatly expanded. Anatomical models, surgical tools and tool design, splints, implants, and prosthetics are among the applications for additive manufacturing. A cursory examination of numerous research articles reveals that patient-specific orthopaedic procedures offer a variety of application areas as well as potential development options. This paper focuses on AM techniques, mechanical properties, porosity, pore structure, surface modification, and other factors that may influence bone ingrowth into AM porous metal scaffolds.