Professional
Technical
IVT
PEEK cage
Pronunciation: PEEK kayj
Also written as: PEEK — Polyetheretherketone
Polyetheretherketone interbody device used to maintain disc space height and promote fusion.
Full Definition
A spinal interbody fusion device made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a biocompatible thermoplastic polymer that has similar mechanical properties to bone. PEEK cages are hollow or perforated structures placed in the intervertebral disc space during fusion procedures to maintain disc height, restore lordosis, and provide a scaffold for bone growth. PEEK's radiolucent properties allow for better visualization of fusion progress on imaging compared to metallic cages.
Usage
Usage note: PEEK is both an acronym and the common name for this polymer material.
In Context
- "A PEEK cage filled with local bone graft was inserted at the L4-L5 level." — Operative technique
- "The PEEK cage demonstrated excellent integration with surrounding bone at follow-up." — Fusion assessment report
Also known as
PEEK interbody cage
polymer cage
Contrasted with
titanium cage
bone graft
Don't confuse with
titanium cage
mesh cage