3D-Printed PLIF Implant – Advanced Spinal Fusion Solution

What is 3D-printed PLIF implant?

A 3D-printed PLIF implant is a Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion cage that has been manufactured using additive manufacturing (3D printing) — usually with titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4VELI) — instead of traditional machining or molding methods.

Key Points:

Purpose – Same as any PLIF implant: to replace a damaged lumbar disc, restore disc height, and fuse two vertebrae together through a posterior surgical approach.
3D Printing Advantage – Allows for complex, porous, trabecular-like structures that mimic natural bone architecture, improving bone ingrowth and long-term fusion.
Material – Commonly medical-grade titanium alloy; biocompatible, corrosion-resistant, and strong enough to bear spinal loads.
Design –
- Porosity: Encourages osteointegration and vascularization.
- Custom Geometry: Can be patient-specific for perfect anatomical fit.
- Internal Lattice Structures: Reduce stiffness to match bone modulus and prevent stress shielding.
- Hollow Core: Packed with bone graft material to promote fusion.

Benefits over Traditional PLIF Implants:

Better bone ongrowth and ingrowth.
Potentially faster fusion times.
Lighter weight but high strength.
Ability to produce shapes that are difficult or impossible with CNC machining.

Essentially, it’s the modern, high-tech version of the traditional spinal fusion cage, designed to integrate better with the body and provide more reliable long-term outcomes.