Bioresorbable Implants using Selective Laser Melting

Using bioresorbable materials implants can be manufactured which dissolve in the human body and are replaced by natural bone structure. For large implants an interconnecting porous structure needs to be integrated in the implant for a good vascularisation. Using additive manufacturing technology these internal structures can be directly manufactured. The structure can be designed by consequent following the guidelines of the medical expert. This paper describes the development of Selective Laser Melting to process bioresorbable materials Poly(D,L-lactide) and B-Tricalciumphosphate. The properties of the parts concerning microstructure, mechanical and biological properties after processing are analyzed in laboratory and animal tests. Possible applications are demonstrated and include individual bone substitute implants in cranio-maxillofacial surgery.