9. Rapid Prototyping Methods in Manufacturing of Biomedical Implants: A Review

The advancements in science and technology have given the flexibility in various levels for the scientists to manufacture variety of components. Rapid prototyping is one of the most sought-after techniques in the field of biomedical engineering for material manufacture. Bio-inertness, biocompatibility, and manufacturability are the desirable properties for biomedical applications. The review aims to provide a valuable contribution to the biomedical field, by identifying and comparing the rapid prototyping methods on the basis of time, quality, and cost. This work is dedicated to study, identify, and compare different methods of rapid prototyping in the manufacture of biomedical implants, the materials used for these processes. It also encompasses comparison of the process parameters for each manufacturing method and the advantages and disadvantages of the processes. Polysiloxane, hydroxyapatite, bioceramics, and titanium alloys due to its bio-inertness and nontoxic nature are some of the identified materials in the current review of the research. The highly sophisticated and complex biomedical implant manufacturing by various methods was studied and compared. Immense researches are being carried out in this novel field and are more prevalent in biomedical field due to its beautiful characteristics. The rapid advanced technological methods facilitate immediate intervention and faster treatment of the patient which reduces the risk and helps in faster recovery.