PLIF / BULLET CAGE(TT)
A PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion) or bullet cage, typically made of titanium (TT), is an orthopedic implant used in spinal fusion surgeries, particularly in the lumbar spine. Here's an overview of its specifications and uses:
Specification
- Material: PLIF or bullet cages 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 or bullet cages are designed to be inserted into the intervertebral space from a posterior approach, between the vertebrae undergoing fusion. They typically have a cylindrical or bullet-shaped design, allowing for easier insertion and providing stability within the disc space.
- Shape and Size: PLIF or bullet 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 or bullet 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 or bullet cages may 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 or bullet cages 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 or bullet 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, these cages help to alleviate symptoms and improve spinal stability.
- Interbody Fusion: PLIF or bullet 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 or bullet cages are commonly used in minimally invasive spinal fusion surgeries, where access to the surgical site is limited. Their design allows for easier insertion through smaller incisions while still providing adequate structural support and fusion promotion.
- Revision Surgery: PLIF or bullet 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 or bullet cages made of titanium 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.