Mechanical Implant Material Selection, Durability, Strength, and Stiffness

Abstract

Spinal implants are manufactured from a variety of materials to meet user needs as well as the requirements of the physical and environmental demands upon the device. Commonly used materials include titanium, stainless steel, cobalt-chrome, nitinol, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silicon nitride, biodegradable polymers, and allograft bone. Material choices can be driven by requirements for strength, biocompatibility, bone ongrowth, flexibility, and radiolucency. Coatings may also be applied to the implants to further enhance physical or biological properties of the implant. These may include hydroxyapatite, titanium plasma, or a combination of