The use of radiolucent (carbon fibre-reinforced polymer) pedicle screw fixation for serial monitoring of clear cell meningioma: a case report

Abstract

Clear cell meningioma is an uncommon variant of meningioma associated with high rates of local recurrence and metastasis. However, monitoring for local recurrence may be complicated by metal-related artefacts generated by spinal instrumentation. We present a patient with recurrent lumbar atypical clear cell meningioma, which had been resected multiple times throughout her adolescence. Due to extensive bone and ligament resection, posterior stabilization of the lumbar spine with pedicle screws was required. To ensure clear postoperative visualization of the spinal cord for local recurrence, a carbon fibre/polyetheretherketone (CF/PEEK) pedicle screw and rod construct was used. CF/PEEK has non-inferior biomechanical and biocompatible properties to titanium, with a clear advantage of radiolucency to assist in detecting the local recurrence early and facilitating accurate radiotherapy planning.

Applications of 3D Printed Biomaterials in Reconstructive Surgery of the Anterior SkullB

“…PEEK has osseointegration properties, is biocompatible, has low moisture absorption, and is radiolucent. These properties make PEEK a good option for bone tissue engineering, such as craniofacial implants [25][26][27].…”

The use of radiolucent pedicle fixation in degenerative lumbar spine surgery

“…While the technique itself has remained relatively similar over time, the screw materials have evolved significantly with ongoing research—from stainless steel to titanium alloy, and more recently, carbon fibre reinforced-polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK). CFR-PEEK pedicle screws have become recently popularized in the field of oncological spine surgery, where their radiolucent properties allow for superior post-operative planning for adjuvant radiotherapy and radiological monitoring of tumour progression [ 2 , 3 ].…”

Nanostructural interface and strength of polymer composite scaffolds applied to intervertebral bone

“…Due to the increasingly competitive market for these implants, the quality of the product must be improved, combining the facilities promoted by the support material, besides promoting a competitive price [30][31][32]. The polymeric injection process can increase production volumes of intervertebral spacers and improve the production and production of products with higher aggregate quality.…”