Intervertebral Body Fusion Spacers Help Treat Complex Spinal Pathologies

An innovative system of intervertebral body spacer cages made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) provides a superior anatomical reconstruction for interbody spinal fusion.

The Aleutian family of intervertebral body spacers includes five different systems that offer a full array of anatomically designed PEEK interbody options, including anterior-lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), small-anterior (Cervical), posterior-lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), anatomically narrow (AN), and transforaminal-lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Among the features of the spacers in the system (supplied in a large range of implant heights to accommodate differing anatomy sizes) are an elastic modulus close to that of cortical bone, allowing for load sharing while minimizing stress shielding; radiopaque tantalum markers at either end of the implant provide visualization for confirming placement, while body radiolucency allows for more accurate fusion assessment; a bulleted nose design allowing for ease-of-insertion; and a convex design that minimizes endplate preparation. A hollow, fenestrated geometry permits bony ingrowth, and self-retaining teeth assist in gripping the endplates and resisting expulsion. The system also has a complete offering of disc and endplate preparation instruments, including spreaders, scrapers, a bone packing device, and trial spacers to ensure accurate placement. The Aleutian family of intervertebral body spacers is the product of K2M Inc. (Leesburg, VA, USA), and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"FDA clearance for the Aleutian Spacer Systems to be marketed as intervertebral body fusion devices provides surgeons with multiple surgical applications in the cervical and lumbar spine for the treatment of Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) and spondylolisthesis, as well as more complex applications,” said Eric Major, president and CEO of K2M. "The anatomically designed implants and differentiated surgical instruments facilitate and streamline surgical applications. The Aleutian family of products complements our comprehensive product portfolio of best-in-class systems for treating all types of complex spinal pathologies.”

PEEK is a biocompatible and stable polymer used in the development of implantable medical devices and pharmaceutical applications having blood or tissue contact for more than 30 days. It is available in a range of forms that offer virtually unlimited design solutions, and can be processed via injection molding, extrusion, or compression molding. PEEK is usually available in three grades: standard, medium, and low viscosity.

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