3D-Printed PEEK/Silicon Nitride Scaffolds with a Triply Periodic Minimal Surface Structure for Spinal Fusion Implants

The issue of spine-relateddisorders is a global healthcare concernthat requires effective solutions to restore normal spine functioning.Spinal fusion implants have become a standard approach for this purpose,making it crucial to develop biomaterials and structures that possesshigh osteogenic capacities and exhibit mechanical properties and dynamicresponses similar to those of the host bone. This study focused onthe fabrication of 3D-printed polyether ether ketone/silicon nitride(PEEK/SiN) scaffolds with a triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS)structure, which offers several advantages, such as a large surfacearea and uniform stress distribution under load. The mechanical propertiesand dynamic response of PEEK/SiN scaffolds with varying porositieswere evaluated through mechanical testing and finite element analysis.The scaffold with 30% porosity exhibited a compressive strength (34.56 & PLUSMN; 1.91 MPa) and elastic modulus (734 & PLUSMN; 64 MPa) similar tothose of trabecular bone. In addition, the scaffold demonstrated favorabledamping properties. The biological data revealed that incorporatingsilicon nitride into the PEEK scaffold stimulated osteogenic differentiation.In light of these findings, it can be inferred that PEEK/SiN TPMSscaffolds exhibit significant potential for use in bone tissue engineeringand represent a promising option as candidates for spinal fusion implants.

Automated summary

This study focused on the fabrication of 3D-printed polyether ether ketone/silicon nitride (PEEK/SiN) scaffolds with a triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structure. The scaffolds demonstrated similar mechanical properties to trabecular bone and stimulated osteogenic differentiation. As a result, PEEK/SiN TPMS scaffolds show significant potential for bone tissue engineering and as candidates for spinal fusion implants.