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Published on: April 28, 2023
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Novel Clinical Applications of 3D-Printed Highly Porous Titanium for Off-the-Shelf Cementless Joint Replacement
Domenico Tigani1, Luigigiuseppe Lamattina1, Nicole Puteo1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ospedale Maggiore Carlo Alberto Pizzardi, 40133 Bologna, Italy.
Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 26, 2025
Summary
Additive manufacturing creates porous titanium implants for joint replacement, improving fixation and reducing bone loss. These 3D-printed implants offer a promising solution for various patient groups.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Biomaterials engineering
- Additive manufacturing
Background:
- Aseptic loosening is a primary cause of total joint replacement failure.
- Stress shielding and inadequate initial fixation contribute to implant loosening.
- Additive manufacturing offers novel solutions for cementless orthopaedic implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the benefits of additive manufacturing in cementless joint replacement.
- To highlight the role of porous titanium implants in enhancing osseointegration.
- To discuss the potential of 3D-printed implants in various clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of additive manufacturing techniques for orthopaedic implants.
- Analysis of biomimetic, highly porous titanium structures.
- Evaluation of implant components: titanium, ceramic coatings, and polyethylene liners.
Main Results:
- Additive manufacturing enables porous titanium structures that improve bone ingrowth and osseointegration.
- Synergistic use of advanced materials enhances implant fixation and reduces stress shielding.
- 3D-printed porous titanium implants show promise in hip and knee arthroplasty.
Conclusions:
- Additive manufacturing-based implants represent a significant advancement in cementless joint replacement.
- These implants offer improved longevity and are indicated for specific patient populations.
- Further clinical research is needed to validate superior outcomes compared to current standards.
