Advancing Conventional Subtractive Manufacturing for Biomedical Implants: A Critical Review of Precision, Surface Integrity, and Functionalization Strategies

Santosh Kumar*, Rakesh Kumar**
* Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chandigarh Group of Colleges - Landran, Mohali, Punjab, India.
** Department of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance, Kaushik Orthopaedic Pvt. Ltd., Sonipat, Haryana, India.
Periodicity:October - December'2025

Abstract

Conventional Subtractive Manufacturing (CSM) remains a cornerstone in the production of biomedical implants, enabling the fabrication of precision-engineered components with complex geometries and stringent dimensional tolerances. Despite the rapid evolution of additive manufacturing, CSM techniques such as CNC machining, milling, turning, and grinding continue to offer superior mechanical integrity and surface finishes required for critical orthopaedic, dental, and spinal implants. This review paper aims to consolidate the contributions of various researchers in advancing CSM for biomedical applications, emphasising precision manufacturing, surface integrity, and post- processing functionalisation strategies. The paper critically examines the effects of cutting parameters, tool geometries, and coolant strategies on microstructural evolution, residual stress development, and surface topography of biomedical alloys such as titanium, cobalt-chromium, and magnesium. It further discusses post-machining surface modification techniques, including polishing, laser texturing, and coating, to enhance biocompatibility and osseointegration. Additionally, the review highlights emerging trends in sustainable machining, digital twin integration, and hybrid subtractive–additive approaches for implant manufacturing. By presenting these insights, this paper serves as a comprehensive reference for researchers and industry professionals, guiding future innovations while addressing current challenges in advancing CSM for biomedical implant development.

Keywords

Subtractive Manufacturing, Biomedical Implants, CNC Machining, Surface Integrity, Titanium Alloys, Surface Functionalization, Orthopedic Devices.

How to Cite this Article?

Kumar, S., and Kumar, R. (2025). Advancing Conventional Subtractive Manufacturing for Biomedical Implants: A Critical Review of Precision, Surface Integrity, and Functionalization Strategies. i-manager’s Journal on Mechanical Engineering, 15(4), 59-64.

References

If you have access to this article please login to view the article or kindly login to purchase the article

Purchase Instant Access

Single Article

North Americas,UK,
Middle East,Europe
India Rest of world
USD EUR INR USD-ROW
Pdf 35 35 200 20
Online 15 15 200 15
Pdf & Online 35 35 400 25

Options for accessing this content:
  • If you would like institutional access to this content, please recommend the title to your librarian.
    Library Recommendation Form
  • If you already have i-manager's user account: Login above and proceed to purchase the article.
  • New Users: Please register, then proceed to purchase the article.