Osseointegration, the process through which implants become securely anchored to bone, is pivotal for the success of maxillofacial surgeries. Recent research published by scientists at the University of Sydney has presented promising alternatives to titanium, the traditional material used for implants, by evaluating plasma-treated polyaryletherketone (PAEK) implants. This multi-institutional study indicates the potential of these polymeric implants to significantly improve integration with bone tissues, positioning them as viable candidates for future surgical applications.
The study primarily explores the effectiveness of plasma ion immersion implantation (PIII) treatment applied to polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and polyether ketone (PEK) implants. While titanium has long been regarded as the gold standard for craniofacial repairs, researchers are seeking alternatives due to titanium’s drawbacks, particularly those arising from its interaction with radiotherapy, which is commonly used to treat head and neck cancers. The rigid characteristics of titanium can lead to issues such as stress shielding and complications with imaging, driving the need for innovative implant materials.
Utilizing sheep models, the researchers implanted various forms of PEEK and PEK alongside titanium implants to directly compare osseointegration efficacy. The findings showed significantly enhanced osseointegration for the plasma-treated implants versus untreated controls, which exhibited less favorable bone integration.
Surface analysis techniques such as scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy revealed structural differences among the implants. Notably, the plasma-treated PEEK demonstrated smoother surface topography compared to its untreated counterpart, with smoother interlock characteristics advantageous for osseointegration. Importantly, both the treated PEEK and PEK presented improved bone-implant contact over the implantation period, indicating their potential for successful clinical use.
Histological evaluations at different time points showed comparable osseointegration between plasma-treated PEEK and PEK implants with the established titanium positive control, demonstrating their efficacy as alternative materials. The authors noted, "The PIII surface modification technique facilitates superior osseointegration... thereby supporting its clinical translation for craniofacial applications." The results suggest these polymers—through effective surface modifications—can achieve biomechanical outcomes aligning closely with titanium implants, challenging the polymers’ historical perception as bioinert and less suitable for such applications.
This research pushes forward the conversation on materials used for craniofacial reconstruction, emphasizing not only the feasibility of polymer implants but also their benefits—including radiolucency, which minimizes imaging complications, enhancing postoperative assessments and monitoring. The prospects for greater biocompatibility and osseointegration signify benefits for patients needing reconstructive interventions, potentially streamlining surgical procedures and enhancing healing.
With advanced 3D printing technology, such implants can be customized based on individual patient anatomy, providing tailor-made solutions for complex reconstructions. Overall, this pilot study lays the groundwork for future research to investigate the long-term applications of plasma-treated PEEK and PEK implants, signifying the beginning of new era for maxillofacial reconstructive materials.