Application of biodegradable 3D-printed cage for cervical diseases via anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF): an in vitro biomechanical study.

Objectives: To design and fabricate a 3D-printed cervical cage composite of polylactic acid (PLA)/nano-sized and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP).

Results: CAD analysis provided a useful platform to design the preliminary cage. In vitro cell culture and in vivo animal results showed promising results in the biocompatibility of the constructs. Endplate matching evaluation showed better matching degree of 3D-printed cages than those of conventional cages. Biomechanical evaluation showed better mechanical properties of 3D-printed cages than those of conventional cages.

Conclusion: The novel 3D printed PLA/pβ-TCP cage showed good application potential, indicating a novel, feasible, and inexpensive method to manufacture cervical fusion cages.