Progress in surface modification and biotribological properties of medical titanium alloys

Ti-6Al-4V alloy is currently the most widely used bone implant material, especially in the fields of artificial joints, pedicle screws, and other implants. However, the poor wear resistance and biological inertness on the surface of titanium alloy materials are important factors for implant failure. In order to prolong the life of titanium alloy implants, surface modification treatment is a feasible method to improve the performance of titanium alloy. Firstly, the characteristics and current problems of titanium alloy materials were reviewed, and then a series of analysis on the research status of their surface biotribological properties and biological activity were conducted. Furthermore, the surface modification methods of titanium alloys were systematically reviewed. The results have showed that there are still certain challenges in basic science and technology by surface modification of titanium alloys, while improving their surface biotribological properties and biological activity. Therefore, emphasis should be placed on the design of multifunctional treatment for titanium alloy surfaces to explore the mechanism of action after modification in future research, which has important theoretical significance and application value.