A Review on Orthopaedic Biomaterials: Properties, Advances, and Future Directions

Orthopaedic biomaterials play a pivotal role in advancing fracture fixation, joint replacement, and dynamic stabilization within orthopaedic applications. Primarily composed of metals, these biomaterials exhibit outstanding properties including high strength, ductility, fracture toughness, hardness, corrosion resistance, durability, and biocompatibility. Despite their versatility, the landscape of orthopaedic implant materials remains dominated by a limited range of metals, ceramics, composites and polymers. However, the durability of these implants is challenged by biological reactions and material degradation caused by wear and electrochemical corrosion. This article examines the developments that have taken place with respect to the biomaterials and their applications in implants in orthopaedic surgery. This encompasses history, types and properties of metals, polymers, ceramics, composite biomaterials, and processes of fabricating them. The characteristics like biocompatibility, mechanical properties, fluid stability, and the ability to induce osseointegration and the relevance of such materials for implants in orthopaedic surgery is also discussed in this article. Special attention is given to the development of novel bioactive metallic materials and their means of improving wear resistance and biocompatibility by changing the surface and applying coats. The scope of the review further covers advanced technologies including smart bio-materials, 3D/4D printing, use of nanotechnology, and prosthetics. Further, the review article discusses the current status and future trends concerning materials for orthopaedic surgery in greater detail.