PLIF CAGE (HOLE)(TT)
A PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion) cage with holes, often made of titanium (TT), is a type of orthopedic implant used in spinal fusion surgeries, particularly in the lumbar spine. Here's an overview of its specifications and uses:
Specification
- Material: PLIF cages with holes are typically made from medical-grade titanium or titanium alloy. Titanium is chosen for its biocompatibility, strength, and durability, ensuring compatibility with bone tissue and long-term stability within the spinal construct.
- Design: PLIF cages are designed to be inserted into the intervertebral space from a posterior approach, between the vertebrae undergoing fusion. They have a hollow or perforated structure, with holes along the surface to allow for bone graft incorporation and fusion.
- Shape and Size: PLIF cages come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different patient anatomies and surgical requirements. The dimensions of the cage are selected based on factors such as the size of the intervertebral space, the degree of disc degeneration, and the desired height restoration.
- Surface Texture: The surface of PLIF cages may be textured or coated to enhance osseointegration and stability within the intervertebral space. Textured surfaces or coatings promote bone ingrowth and fusion, ensuring long-term stability of the spinal construct.
- Graft Windows: PLIF cages with holes feature graft windows or perforations along the surface to allow for the placement of bone graft material. These graft windows facilitate the incorporation of bone graft into the intervertebral space, promoting fusion between adjacent vertebral bodies.
Uses
- Spinal Fusion Surgery: PLIF cages with holes are primarily used in spinal fusion surgeries to restore disc height, stabilize the spine, and promote fusion between adjacent vertebrae. They are inserted into the disc space from a posterior approach following removal of the intervertebral disc.
- Correction of Spinal Deformities: PLIF cages may be used in the correction of spinal deformities such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal stenosis. By restoring disc height and decompressing neural structures, PLIF cages help to alleviate symptoms and improve spinal stability.
- Interbody Fusion: PLIF cages facilitate interbody fusion by providing a stable platform for the placement of bone graft material. The cage promotes the ingrowth of bone tissue across the disc space, leading to fusion between adjacent vertebral bodies and stabilization of the spinal segment.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: PLIF cages with holes are commonly used in minimally invasive spinal fusion surgeries, where access to the surgical site is limited. The design of the cage allows for insertion through a smaller incision while still providing adequate structural support and fusion promotion.
- Revision Surgery: PLIF cages may be used in revision spinal surgeries to augment or replace existing interbody implants. They can provide additional stability and support in cases where previous implants have failed or require modification.
In summary, PLIF cages with holes are essential implants in spinal fusion surgeries, providing structural support, stabilization, and fusion promotion between adjacent vertebral bodies. They are utilized by trained spinal surgeons following proper surgical techniques and patient-specific considerations to achieve successful fusion and stabilization of the spine.