Design, Materials and Biomechanics of Orthopaedic Implants: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Millions of patients’ lives have been improved by orthopaedic implants. Joint replacement surgery has helped to relieve pain and improve function, while fracture fixation implants promote faster bone healing, resulting in a quicker return to daily activities. The use of more wear-resistant bearing surfaces has increased the longevity of artificial joints. As with any implant, special attention must be paid to the material and design used to create the implants; otherwise, bone fractures or defects may occur, and bone healing may not occur at all. This review highlights the parameters of implant design, the different biomaterials used in implants, and the types of implants, along with their biomechanics. The review provides a brief explanation of the factors involved in designing an implant, the materials used to manufacture it, and the biomechanical principles behind the most common types of implants.