PEEK vs Titanium Cage for Anterior Column Reconstruction in Active Spinal Tuberculosis: A Comparative Study

Area of Science:

• Spinal Surgery
• Orthopedic Oncology
• Infectious Disease Management

Background:

• Spinal tuberculosis (TB spine) surgery, particularly posterolateral decompression and debridement, can destabilize the anterior column.
• Anterior column reconstruction is crucial for spinal stability following TB spine surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical and radiological outcomes of anterior column reconstruction using PEEK cages versus titanium mesh cages in TB spine patients.
• To evaluate differences in pain (VAS), function (ODI), kyphosis correction, and fusion rates between the two cage types.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective comparative study of TB spine patients undergoing anterior column reconstruction.
• Patients were divided into two groups: PEEK cage (Group A) and titanium mesh cage (Group B).
• Outcomes assessed included VAS, ODI, kyphosis correction, cage subsidence, and bony fusion via CT scans.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in clinical (VAS, ODI) or radiological outcomes between PEEK and titanium mesh cages.
• All patients achieved good bony fusion.
• Two patients in the titanium mesh cage group experienced implant-related complications requiring revision surgery.

Conclusions:

• Both PEEK and titanium mesh cages demonstrate comparable clinico-radiological efficacy for anterior column reconstruction in TB spine.
• PEEK cages may offer advantages in terms of radiolucency and surgical handling.
• The choice of cage material should consider patient-specific factors and potential complication risks.