An orthopedic implant and method for forming same includes providing a forging die having a punch and a split die. The split die is movable between an opened state, where first and second die portions are spaced apart to allow for removal of a formed orthopedic implant element from within the cavity portions, and a closed state, where the first and second die portions are secured together and the cavity portions cooperate to define a cavity to form the orthopedic implant element therein. The split die is closed and a billet of biocompatible material is provided in the cavity and the punch is moved to deform the billet in the cavity to forge the orthopedic implant element in the cavity while the first and second die portions are substantially fixedly secured together when the split die is in said closed state.
