Biological response to chopped‐carbon‐fiber‐reinforced peek

Abstract

Polymer composites are being recognized as important implant materials for fracture fixation plates. The use of a composite material is dependent upon the mechanical properties of the material and its biocompatibility. The primary objective of this project was to evaluate 30% chopped-carbon-fiber-reinforced poly(etheretherketone) (CFRPEEK) as a potential material for use as a fracture fixation plate. A two-phase study was conducted. The first phase analyzed the short-term biocompatibility of CFRPEEK through rabbit muscle implant testing. CFRPEEK exhibited a nonspecific foreign body tissue reaction similar to the response observed with ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In the second phase, four-hole CFRPEEK plates were implanted as internal fixation devices for transverse midshaft femoral osteotomies in beagles. The plates were effective in promoting fracture healing. A nonspecific foreign body reaction was observed to the plates and to particulate debris.

Do Surface Porosity and Pore Size Influence Mechanical Properties and Cellular Response to PEEK?

“…Interest in improving PEEK's osseointegration has accelerated in recent years after numerous reports have described its inability in smooth form to facilitate bone apposition [9,23,25,34,51]. Reasons why this interest persists (as opposed to abandoning PEEK altogether) are often attributed to the other qualities of PEEK that make it favorable in orthopaedic and spinal applications, mainly its radiolucency, MRI compatibility, high strength, and fatigue resistance.…”

“…However, attributable in part to PEEK's relatively inert and hydrophobic surface, recent evidence has demonstrated that smooth PEEK can exhibit poor osseointegration [9,25] and fibrous capsule formation around the implant [23,34]. Lack of bone-implant contact can induce micromotion and inflammation that leads to fibrous layer thickening, osteolysis, and implant loosening [2,13,29,37,48].…”

PEEK biomaterials in trauma, orthopedic, and spinal implants

“…Jokish et al [101] implanted CFR-PEEK into rabbit muscle over eight to twelve weeks and observed normal muscle tissue with no adverse tissue response and no visible infection with only a few inflammatory cells when analysed histologically. The tissue response was comparable to UHMWPE.…”

MR-guided cholecystostomy: Assessment of biplanar, real-time needle tracking in three pigs

“…To enhance its cutting ability, the cutting tip of the stylette is made of ceramic. Although stress and wear in PEEK-based orthopedic implants have been thoroughly examined [12][13][14], its durability when applied to puncture needle systems remains to be evaluated.…”

“…Both the stylette and cannula are made of polyethyleneketone (PEEK), a polymer composite. The biocompatibility and durability of PEEK have been demonstrated by a series of investigators in conjunction with its use as an orthopedic implant material [12][13][14].…”