Advancements in Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of titanium alloy scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) has emerged as a transformative technology in bone tissue engineering, particularly for fabricating porous scaffolds from titanium alloys. These scaffolds offer a promising solution for treating critical-sized bone defects, providing mechanical support while promoting bone regeneration. A comprehensive review on recent advancements of SLM is provided by presenting a detailed analysis of cutting-edge research in the application of SLM for titanium alloy scaffold production. Key areas explored include structural designs like Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMS), material and process parameters optimization to enhance scaffold properties such as porosity, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. Furthermore, the review emphasizes recent innovations in surface modification techniques which improve bioactivity and osseointegration to enable scaffolds to mimic the host tissues. In addition, this review provides essential insights in related to the potential of SLM to be adopted in producing personalized and high-performance medical implants. By synthesizing the latest trends and identifying key areas for future research, this paper aims to serve as a vital resource for the advancement and usage of SLM-fabricated scaffolds in clinical applications. The findings underscore the importance of continued innovation in this field, which has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes in orthopaedics and beyond.
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