Orthopedic architecture

Traditional materials for orthopedic and dental applications have been selected based on their mechanical properties and ability to remain inert in vivo this selection process has provided materials that satisfied physiological loading conditions but did not duplicate the mechanical, chemical, and architectural properties of bone. Most importantly, to date, failure of conventional orthopedic and dental implant materials is often due to insufficient bonding to juxtaposed bone (that is, insufficient osseointegration). 

Table 1.1 lists typical nanomaterials from 0-D to 3-D that can be produced by CVD techniques. In comparison to PVD, CVD techniques are more efficient for preparing nanocomposites and complex compounds (e.g., oxides, nitrides, etc.) [28]. More importantly, due to the nature of the gas process, the CVD technique can readily achieve uniform depositions or coatings on complex shapes and geometries such as curved surfaces, pore walls or blind holes, channels, and recesses [10]. This capability is extremely important for fabricating and modifying orthopedic implants and prostheses that usually have irregular shapes or architectures. 

Liu, H., Webster, T.J., 2007. Ceramic/polymer nanocomposite tissue engineering scaffolds for more effective orthopedic applications from 2D surfaces to novel 3D architectures. Materials Research Society 950 (i), 1-6. 

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