Strategies to improve bioactive and antibacterial properties of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) for use as orthopedic implants

Materials Today Bio, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100402 · Published: August 19, 2022

Simple Explanation

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is becoming a popular material for orthopedic implants due to its bone-like elasticity and biocompatibility. However, PEEK's inertness and susceptibility to infection limit its use. Researchers are modifying PEEK to enhance its bone integration and antibacterial properties. Surface modification involves treating PEEK with chemicals, physical processes, or bioactive coatings. PEEK can also be combined with bioactive fillers using melting or 3D printing to improve its biological activity. Modifications like sulfonation or grafting antibacterial substances onto PEEK can improve its antibacterial performance. These strategies aim to make modified PEEK more bioactive and resistant to infection.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Surface modification of PEEK, including bioactive material coating, chemical treatment, and physical treatment, enhances bioactivity, allowing easier integration with native bone tissue.
2
Incorporating bioactive materials into PEEK to create composites improves mechanical properties and bioactivity compared to pure PEEK.
3
PEEK antimicrobial performance can be enhanced through sulfonation treatment, coating antibiotics/antimicrobial peptides/antimicrobial polymers, or coating metal nanoparticles.

Research Summary

PEEK's stable chemical and physical properties, excellent X-ray transmittance, and bone-like mechanical properties make it suitable for orthopedic implants. However, its biological inertness leads to poor osseointegration, and lack of antimicrobial properties can lead to implant failure. PEEK modification methods include surface modification and composite preparation. Maintaining the stability of surface coatings and mechanical properties of composite materials is crucial. The main challenge is improving bioactivity and antibacterial properties without compromising mechanical properties. Consideration should also be given to the complexity and manufacturing costs of PEEK modification.

Practical Implications

Improved Bone Integration

Modified PEEK promotes better adhesion and growth of bone cells, leading to enhanced implant fixation and long-term stability.

Reduced Infection Risk

Antibacterial modifications prevent bacterial colonization on the implant surface, minimizing the risk of post-operative infections and implant failure.

Customizable Implants

3D printing techniques allow for the creation of patient-specific PEEK implants with tailored mechanical properties and bioactivity, optimizing treatment outcomes.

Study Limitations

1
Concerns exist regarding the long-term stability and biocompatibility of certain PEEK modifications, particularly those involving nanomaterials or chemical treatments.
2
The unrestrained release of antibiotics and nanoparticles could lead to bacterial resistance and oxidative stress in bone cells.
3
Trade-offs between porosity and mechanical performance must be carefully considered in load-bearing PEEK implants.

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