3D printed spinal cages to prevent infections
3D Printed Silicon Nitride Porous PEEK Composite Spinal Cages for Anti-Infection
This study is testing a new 3D-printed spinal fusion cage made from a special material that aims to keep your spine stable while also lowering the chance of infections, which could help people with neck and back pain have safer surgeries and better recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sintx Technologies, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10819309 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of spinal fusion cage made from a 3D-printed composite material that combines silicon nitride and polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK). The goal is to create a cage that not only stabilizes the spine but also reduces the risk of infections that can occur with traditional materials. The research involves testing the mechanical performance and biological integration of this new material in both normal and contaminated conditions. If successful, this innovation could lead to safer spinal surgeries with better outcomes for patients suffering from neck and back pain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from persistent neck or back pain who may require spinal fusion surgery.
Not a fit: Patients who have already undergone spinal fusion with existing materials or those not requiring surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of infections following spinal fusion surgeries, leading to improved recovery and health outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using silicon nitride in spinal applications, indicating potential for success with this novel composite approach.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Sintx Technologies, INC. — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bock, Ryan — Sintx Technologies, INC.
- Study coordinator: Bock, Ryan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.