Titanium and nickel alloys are commonly used to make medical implants because they have a good strength weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and are relatively abundant in the earth's crust.
Tantalum, by contrast, is a rare metal with many properties that make it a valuable medical grade alloy additive. In addition to extremely high corrosion resistance, tantalum also has chemical inertness. It is a viable alternative to platinum and plays a role in certain sterile environments. By adding materials, this relatively uncommon metal can be used in a small amount and optimizes its potential by using a laser aided additive manufacturing system. The 3D printed tantalum implant is used to repair most of the bones in his left knee. It is tailored to the patient's X-ray image and scanning data, and is designed to have porosity to promote organic tissue growth. Surgeons at the chongqing hospital performed the procedure, hoping that the customization of implants would help speed recovery and reduce the risk of complications. As shown in the picture below, the patient stands with a bracket attached to his leg. Although the spine is much smaller than the knee joint, it has become one of the most common 3D printing techniques in medicine. Some titanium designs have been approved by the FDA, and a growing number of companies are moving into more challenging applications. In particular, 3D printed tantalum has become the subject of medical research projects.
