Three-Dimensionally-Printed Polyether-Ether-Ketone Implant with a Cross-Linked Structure and Acid-Etched Microporous Surface Promotes Integration with Soft Tissue

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Polyether-ether-ketone (peek) is one of the most common materials used for load-bearing orthopedic devices owing to its radiolucency and favorable mechanical properties. However, current smooth-surfaced peek implants can lead to fibrous capsule formation. To overcome this issue, here, peek specimens with well-defined internal cross-linked structures (macropore diameters of 1.0-2.0 mm) were fabricated using a three-dimensional (3D) printer, and an acid-etched microporous surface was achieved using injection-molding technology. The cell adhesion properties of smooth and microporous peek specimens was compared in vitro through a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the soft tissue responses to the both microporous and cross-linked structure of different groups were determined in vivo using a New Zealand white rabbit model, and examined through histologic staining and separating test. The results showed that the acid-etched microporous surface promoted human skin fibroblasts (HSF) adherence, while internal cross-linked structure improved the ability of the peek specimen to form a mechanical combination with soft tissue, especially with the 1.5 mm porous specimen. The peek specimens with both the internal cross-linked structure and external acid-etched microporous surface could effectively promote the close integration of soft tissue and prevent formation of fibrous capsules, dem

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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