Characterization of electric discharge machining, subsequent etching and shot-peening as a surface treatment for orthopedic implants

► Surface treatment of Ti alloy by electric discharge machining, etching and shot peening. ► Surface topography enhances the proliferation of osteoblast-like cells. ► Shot peening improves poor fatigue performance after electric discharge machining. ► Proposed three-step surface treatment is well applicable in orthopedics.