The invention relates to medical devices made from ternary single-phase ceramics. In an embodiment, the invention is a medical orthopedic implant comprising at least a portion made of a single-phase ceramic with a formula of M.sub.n+1AX.sub.n (wherein n=1 to 3, M is an early transition metal, A is an A-group element, and X is C and/or N). In an embodiment, the invention is a method of treating a disorder associated with orthopedic malformation and/or dysfunction and wherein an implantation of artificial implant is needed, in a subject in need of such treatment, the method comprising implanting in said subject an implant having at least a portion thereof made of a single-phase ceramic with a formula of M.sub.n+1AX.sub.n (wherein n=1 to 3, M is an early transition metal, A is an A-group element, and X is C and/or N.