Cancers (Oct 2022)

CFR-PEEK Pedicle Screw Instrumentation for Spinal Neoplasms: A Single Center Experience on Safety and Efficacy

  • Ann-Kathrin Joerger,
  • Sebastian Seitz,
  • Nicole Lange,
  • Amir K. Aftahy,
  • Arthur Wagner,
  • Yu-Mi Ryang,
  • Denise Bernhardt,
  • Stephanie E. Combs,
  • Maria Wostrack,
  • Jens Gempt,
  • Bernhard Meyer

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14215275
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 21
p. 5275

Abstract

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(1) Background: Surgery for spinal metastases has gained a decisive role in modern oncological treatment. Recently, carbon-fiber-reinforced (CFR) polyethyl-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) pedicle screw systems were introduced, reducing artifacts on imaging and showing less perturbation effects on photon radiation. Preliminary clinical experience with CFR-PEEK implants for spinal metastases exists. The aim of this monocentric study is to report on the safety and efficacy of CFR-PEEK pedicle screw systems for spinal neoplasms in a large cohort of consecutive patients. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed prospectively the collected data of consecutive patients being operated on from 1 August 2015 to 31 October 2021 using a CFR-PEEK pedicle screw system for posterior stabilization because of spinal metastases or primary bone tumors of the spine. (3) Results: We included 321 patients of a mean age of 65 ± 13 years. On average, 5 ± 2 levels were instrumented. Anterior reconstruction was performed in 121 (37.7%) patients. Intraoperative complications were documented in 30 (9.3%) patients. Revision surgery for postoperative complications was necessary in 55 (17.1%) patients. Implant-related complications, such as intraoperative screw breakage (3.4%) and screw loosening (2.2%), were rare. (4) Conclusions: CFR-PEEK is a safe and efficient alternative to titanium for oncological spinal instrumentation, with low complication and revision rates in routine use and with the advantage of its radiolucency.

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