Abstract:
Bone implants play a critical role in the field of medical science, enabling the restoration of
damaged bone tissue. Traditional implants, however, often lack the ability to support bone
regeneration, resulting in implant failure or the need for removal. To address this challenge,
additive manufacturing (AM) has introduced innovative porous lattice structures capable of
promoting osteointegration, a process crucial for implant success. This study focuses on
optimizing lattice designs to balance porosity with mechanical strength, aiming to bridge the
gap between implant requirements and performance.
Three lattice types—Double Pyramid, Double Pyramid with Cross and Octahedral—were
examined across varying porosity levels, setting the stage for a comprehensive analysis. Three
primary objectives were established: 1) evaluated porosity and pore sizes for optimal
osteointegration, 2) optimized lattice regions with maximum stress concentration, 3) Identified
superior lattice types and configurations based on yield forces for enhanced strength and
osseointegration.
The results reveal that the Double Pyramid lattice exhibited superior performance, maintaining
strength and stiffness within acceptable limits at 50% porosity. Double Pyramid with cross and
Octahedral lattice structures displayed diminished mechanical properties beyond this threshold.
The study's findings not only address implant requirements but also introduce a novel lattice
variant that combines the benefits of enhanced strength and osteointegration at higher porosity
levels.
This research has significant implications for the medical field, additive manufacturing,
aerospace industries, and applications involving high-strength lattice structures. The study's
outcomes provide a valuable foundation for the development of tailored implants to meet
specific patient needs, ultimately advancing the field of bone implantation.
