(P 86) CARBON FIBRE-REINFORCED PEEK IMPLANTS FOR TUMORS OF THE SPINE

Objective: Carbon fibre-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) implants are a valuable option in spinal tumor surgery, offering structural integrity, minimizing interference with diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. We aimed to evaluate outcomes of CFR-PEEK implants, focusing on spinal stability, neurological recovery, pain relief and survival in patients with spinal tumors.

Methods: This retrospective analysis included 83 patients (52 males, mean age 59.9 years, range 18–88) treated between 2018 and 2024. 22 patients had primary and 61 secondary tumors, most commonly chordoma (6) and renal cell carcinoma (16). Surgical interventions involved the cervical (12), thoracic (42), and lumbar (29) spine. Mean surgery time was 207 minutes, with an average of 5 fusion levels. Pre- and postoperative outcomes (Frankel-, VAS Score), SINS-Score, and oncological follow-up were analysed using Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney-U tests.

Results: Mean follow-up was 13 months (range 0–55). Postoperative mortality (34%) was associated with local recurrence in 10 patients (p = 0.008). Significant neurological (Frankel Score from 40% to 62%, p < 0.001), and VAS improvements (mean of 3 points, SD 2.5, p < 0.001) were observed. SINS Score classified 26% as unstable, but without correlating with complications, neurological outcomes, or VAS improvement. Complications occurred in 19 patients, including 6 with wound healing disorders and 3 with implant loosening; 3 complications, including 2 dural tears, occurred intraoperatively.

Conclusion: CFR-PEEK implants demonstrate effective spinal stabilization, significant neurological and functional improvements, as well as manageable complication rates, supporting their use as a reliable option for spinal fusion in tumor surgery.