The document assesses traditional investment casting and contemporary 3D printing methods in fabricating femoral hip stems. Conventional techniques, characterized by well-established processes such as investment casting and profile milling, have demonstrated reliability but are limited in customizability and may lead to stress shielding due to their rigidity. On the other hand, 3D printing offers superior design flexibility, allowing for porous structures that mimic bone properties, thus potentially reducing complications like stress shielding. However, it remains costly and less developed compared to traditional methods. The analysis includes a review of recent advances in both technologies, exploring how each contributes to improved patient outcomes and cost efficiencies. It concludes by suggesting the continued use of conventional processes until 3D printing technology becomes more economically viable and widely adopted for large-scale production.
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