PEEK Interference Screw

What is the PEEK Interference screw?

PEEK Interference screws are used for fixation of anterior and posterior tendon repairs, are made of PEEK (Poly Ether-Ether Kethon). These screws are also used on BTB and soft tissue fixations. Fully threaded and blut screws protect the graft from laceration on insertion.

Interference screw is a popular fixation device used to rigidly fix bone-patellar tendon-bone (B-PT-B) graft both in femoral and tibial tunnels in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Parallel placement of screw is difficult in transtibially drilled femoral tunnel but always desired as it affects pullout strength of the graft. Commonly, interference screw into the femoral tunnel is inserted through the anteromedial (AM) or accessory AM portal. These portals are not-in-line with the transtibially drilled femoral tunnel. Furthermore, these portals increase the divergence of the interference screw in the femoral tunnel. We hypothesized that interference screw placement through patellar tendon (PT) portal (through donor defect) in transtibially drilled femoral tunnel can be less divergent.

What are interference screws made of?

CZMEDITECH Interference Screws are of the highest quality standard. A complete family of interference screws includes Bio-Interference Screws (primarily amorphous PLLA Full Thread),  PEEK Interference Screws,  Metal Interference Screws (made from titanium for femoral and tibial fixation of a soft tissue or bone-tendon grafts in cruciate ligament reconstruction procedures), and Sheath Cannulated Screws (translucent sheath).

PEEK Interference Screw: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Clinical Applications

Orthopedic surgeries require high-quality implants and instrumentation to achieve successful outcomes. One such implant is the PEEK interference screw, which has become increasingly popular in orthopedic surgeries due to its biocompatibility and mechanical properties. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the PEEK interference screw, its advantages, disadvantages, and clinical applications.

Introduction

PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) is a thermoplastic polymer that has gained popularity in the field of orthopedics. It is known for its mechanical properties such as high strength, stiffness, and fatigue resistance. It is also biocompatible and radiolucent, making it an excellent choice for implant material in orthopedic surgeries. The PEEK interference screw is a type of implant used in reconstructive surgeries to stabilize ligaments and tendons.

Advantages of PEEK Interference Screw

The PEEK interference screw has several advantages that make it a preferred choice for orthopedic surgeons. These include:

Biocompatibility

PEEK is an inert material that does not cause any adverse reactions when implanted in the human body. It is also radiolucent, making it easier for doctors to track the healing process.

Mechanical Properties

PEEK has excellent mechanical properties that make it an ideal choice for implants. It is highly resistant to wear, fatigue, and fracture. It is also highly biostable, meaning it does not degrade over time, leading to a longer lifespan of the implant.

Ease of Use

PEEK interference screws are easy to insert and remove, making it an ideal choice for surgeons. The screws also have good thread engagement, providing excellent grip and holding power.

Reduced Interference

PEEK interference screws have a low profile, which reduces the amount of soft tissue and bone interference. This results in less postoperative pain and discomfort.

MRI Compatibility

PEEK is radiolucent, meaning it does not produce any artifacts during MRI scans. This makes it easier for doctors to track the healing process.

Disadvantages of PEEK Interference Screw

While PEEK interference screws have several advantages, they also have some disadvantages. These include:

High Cost

PEEK interference screws are more expensive than traditional metal screws, which can be a limiting factor for some patients.

Screw Fracture

PEEK interference screws have been known to fracture during insertion or removal, which can result in further complications.

Lack of Long-term Data

PEEK interference screws are a relatively new technology, and there is a lack of long-term data on their performance and safety.

Clinical Applications of PEEK Interference Screw

PEEK interference screws are used in several orthopedic surgeries, including:

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction

PEEK interference screws are commonly used in ACL reconstruction surgeries to stabilize the graft.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Reconstruction

PEEK interference screws are also used in PCL reconstruction surgeries to stabilize the graft.

Meniscus Repair

PEEK interference screws are used in meniscus repair surgeries to stabilize the repair.

Shoulder Stabilization

PEEK interference screws are also used in shoulder stabilization surgeries to stabilize the joint.

Conclusion

The PEEK interference screw is an excellent implant choice for orthopedic surgeries. It has several advantages such as biocompatibility, excellent mechanical properties, ease of use, reduced interference, and MRI compatibility. However, it also has some disadvantages such as high cost, screw fracture, and lack of long-term data. PEEK interference screws are commonly used in ACL and PCL reconstruction surgeries, meniscus repair, and shoulder stabilization surgeries. As technology advances and more data becomes available, it is likely that PEEK interference screws will become even more prevalent in orthopedic surgeries.

FAQs

1. Are PEEK interference screws MRI-compatible?

Yes, PEEK interference screws are radiolucent, making them MRI-compatible.

2. What is the advantage of using PEEK interference screws in ACL reconstruction?

PEEK interference screws provide excellent grip and holding power, making them ideal for stabilizing the graft.

3. Can PEEK interference screws fracture during insertion or removal?

Yes, PEEK interference screws have been known to fracture during insertion or removal, which can result in further complications.

4. Are PEEK interference screws more expensive than traditional metal screws?

Yes, PEEK interference screws are more expensive than traditional metal screws.

5. What is the future of PEEK interference screws in orthopedic surgeries?

As technology advances and more data becomes available, it is likely that PEEK interference screws will become even more prevalent in orthopedic surgeries due to their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility.