PEEK (polyether ether ketone) is an optimal material to use in producing medical devices because it is:
- Biologically inert with excellent biocompatibility
- Lightweight yet durable with a bone-like modulus of elasticity
- Resistant to thermal and ionizing radiation
- Radiolucent to enable radiographic evaluation to monitor bony fusion
Patient-specific spine cage with an integrated lattice structure 3D printed using PEEK. In this sample, biphasic calcium phosphate was added to PEEK to enhance cell attachment and cell proliferation.
Optimize outcomes with implants 3D printed in PEEK
Improve the biocompatibility of medical devices with implantable PEEK. The lightweight material possesses high tensile strength with properties close to that of human bone, and it maintains its mechanical and chemical stability even at high temperatures. When PEEK polymers are 3D printed, you can produce implants and instruments in less time and with less waste than when traditional milling processes are used. You also gain design freedom to integrate lattice structures to further support osteointegration and to personalize implants to fit individual patient anatomies.
3D print implants and instruments with several PEEK materials
Talk to 3D Systems product development experts to help you select the right PEEK material for your application. The EXT 220 MED extrusion platform is compatible with four different options:
- Implant-grade PEEK
- Medical-grade PEEK
- Carbon-fiber-reinforced PEEK (CFR-PEEK)
- PEEK with biphasic calcium phosphate (VESTAKEEP® Fusion)
Patient-specific cranial plate 3D printed using PEEK. The durability and strength of the thermoplastic material and the implant’s contoured fit make it an excellent choice for reconstruction.