Additive-manufactured Ti-6Al-4 V/Polyetheretherketone composite porous cage for Interbody fusion: bone growth and biocompatibility evaluation in a porcine model

Abstract Background We developed a porous Ti alloy/PEEK composite interbody cage by utilizing the advantages of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium alloy (Ti alloy) in combination with additive manufacturing technology. Methods Porous cages were manufactured using various controlled porosities. Anterior intervertebral lumbar fusion posterior augmentation performed at three vertebral levels on 20 female pigs. Each level was randomly implanted one five that tested: commercialized pure PEEK cage, nonporous endplates, porosities 40, 60, 80%, respectively. Micro-computed tomography (CT), backscattered-electron SEM (BSE-SEM), histological analyses performed. Results Micro-CT revealed improved bone growth high-porosity groups. BSE-SEM demonstrated structures high porosities, especially 60 facilitated more formation inside implant but not outside implant. Histological analysis also showed higher groups than group. Conclusion The presents biological endplates mechanical radiographic central core, which makes it suitable for use as single fusion.