A metamaterial bone plate for biofixation based on 3D printing technology

Abstract

Bone plate design and production methods are critical for producing metamaterial bone plates. This study investigated the design and development process of porous structures and metamaterial bone plates for biofixation applications. We designed the porous structures for bone plates using parametric modeling and fused them via the implicit surface fusion method. Likewise, we designed the metamaterial bone plate structure using reverse reconstruction and topological optimization. Thereafter, we utilized three-dimensional (3D) printing for producing and post-processing the metamaterial bone plate. We observed a reduced stress-shielding effect after topological optimization. Additionally, the resultant diamond porous structure maintained a high porosity under pressure. The 3D-printed bone plates and fillers had a bright porous surface, with clear pore structures and good connectivity. The assembly of the 3D-printed femur, bone plate, filler, and standardized screw indicated a good fitting, and the filler could be fixed by the inclined surface. Taken together, the findings of this study established the foundation for the prospective application of metamaterial bone plates in biofixation.