Advances in Topology Optimization-driven Additive Manufacturing in Medical Implants

Traditional medical implants are difficult to meet personalized medical needs due to mismatched mechanical properties and insufficient biocompatibility. The combination of topology optimization and additive manufacturing provides new ideas to solve the above problems. In this paper, we discuss the technical paths and results of the combination of the two in enhancing the mechanical properties, biocompatibility and permeability of implants: the optimal distribution of materials is achieved through topology optimization, and combined with the complex shaping capability of additive manufacturing, it effectively improves stress shielding, promotes cellular integration and bone regeneration, and optimizes the material transport. Currently, this technology has problems such as a difficult balance between mechanical properties and biological functions, insufficient clinical trials, high cost and low algorithmic efficiency, etc. In the future, it needs to be combined with metamaterials and AI technology to promote its development. This research holds significant promise for advancing personalized medicine by enabling the design and fabrication of highly customized implants that better mimic natural bone structures, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing complications.