Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute of Laser Technology in Aachen have devised a method for making made-to-measure, porous bone implants from degradable materials using a laser melting technology.

An alternative to titanium implants, degradable implants are intended to replace the missing pieces of bone only until the fissure closes itself up. That may last months or even years, depending on the size of the defect, the age and health status of the patient. A new implant improves the conditions for the healing process and emerged from the Resobone project of the federal ministry for education and research.

via spie.