Evaluation of a Lumbar Intervertebral Spacer With Integrated Screws as a Stand-alone Fixation Device

Abstract

The incorporation of screws into a PEEK interbody device was evaluated alongside traditional constructs in terms of construct rigidity and resistance to pullout. The greatest contributions of the integrated screws are in limiting torsional motion and in the containment of the interbody device. Pedicular fixation produces the most rigid constructs, but integrating screws into a PEEK spacer produces a stand-alone construct that is similar to threaded cages and provides more resistance to anterior displacement.