Macroporous hydroxyapatite bioceramics by solid freeform fabrication: towards custom implants

Abstract

Solid freeform fabrication is a recent technology by which prototype devices can be manufactured layer by layer under computer control. This allows the production not only of individual devices of complex shape, but also objects with an internal structure that would be impossible to make by conventional manufacturing methods. Application of this technology to the manufacture of macro porous hydroxyapatite bio ceramics for bone substitute applications is discussed. A new design is described with features of conventional ceramics that are known to induce bone growth in vivo.