Two processes for fabricating implants from calcium phosphate have been developed. The first uses the selective laser sintering (SLS) process to prepare porous, shaped implants from calcium metaphosphate powder. The porous implants show excellent biocompatibility and bone in-growth when tested in animals, however their initial low strengths limits their use to non-load bearing applications. The second process uses SLS to prepare carbon molds from which high-strength, full-density calcium phosphate parts can be made by casting. Full density parts may prove useful for teeth, bone screws, vertebrae, and other load-bearing applications.
| Number of Pages : | 17 |
| Published : | 11/01/2000 |
