Utility of Carbon Fiber Implants in Orthopedic Surgery: Literature Review

Abstract

Carbon fiber (CF) consists of a multitude of unique physical, chemical and biological characteristics that can be utilized and exploited for a number of diverse applications. Found in aerospace systems, structural elements, energy storage and other products, the most recent application of CF has expanded into the realm of surgical implants. The material properties of CF, historical development and applications and methods of manufacturing are illustrated upon. The various surgical applications of CF are defined, from biocompatibility within the human body and wound healing products to numerous surgical implantations. Keywords: carbon fiber; orthopedics; historical review

Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced PEEK Intramedullary Nails Defining the Niche

“…Despite these advantages outlined above, the main limitation to the use of CFR-PEEK nails has traditionally been the prohibitive cost of the implant in comparison to conventional nails. However, with improvements in the manufacturing process combined with increasing usage and competitive cost structures provided by the industry, this is no longer the case [20, 21]. At our institution, the long cephalomedullary CFR-PEEK nail is approximately 35% more expensive than the equivalent titanium nail.…”

Experimental-clinical study of carbon biomaterials application in orthopedics and traumatology (literature review)

“…Проведенные клинические исследования углеродных материалов показали их высокую биосовместимость, хорошие стабилизирующие свойства, отсутствие негативных проявлений в костной ткани, а также возможность использования рентгенологического контроля на этапах лечения пациента [27,28,57,59,60].…”

Assessment of a carbon fibre MRI flatbed insert for radiotherapy treatment planning

“…Clinical MRI-compatible devices have also been made with carbon fibres. [3][4][5][6][7][8] Liney et al 3 compared induced image artefacts of 2-mm-diameter carbon fibre rods with MR-compatible needles for pre-surgical breast lesion detection in phantoms. Artefact-free visualization of the tip, which was within 1 mm of the desired target, was achieved with the carbon fibre rods.…”