Hip joint prostheses and methods for manufacturing the same

摘要

An implantable bone prosthesis, such as an acetabular shell, includes a bone engaging region that is made from a cast metal or metal alloy and an articulation surface that is formed of a ceramic material or a metal that is permanently attached to the metal bone engaging region. The bone engaging region of the prosthesis preferably includes a dampening mechanism to absorb some of the loading forces communicated to the acetabular cavity. The bone prosthesis is formed by a casting process from casting molds that are prepared using a three dimensional printing technique.