Surface modification of PEEK to enhance cellular response

• Main Author: Egan, S. E.
• Published: University of Cambridge 2009
• Subjects: 611
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.598796

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a thermoplastic polymer that has been successfully used in a range of cardiovascular, orthopaedic and dental applications. This study investigates the surface modification of PEEK with calcium phosphate coatings; alone and in conjunction with topographical modifications. Calcium phosphate thin films of 200-400 nm thickness were produced on PEEK using magnetron sputter deposition. The films were applied to unmodified (injection moulded) PEEK surfaces and PEEK surfaces with grooved features. The grooves were produced by hot embossing using nickel stamps with features 20 or 60 μm wide and 30 μm deep. Furthermore, electrohydrodynamic spray deposition was used to deposit calcium phosphate relics onto unmodified PEEK, and PEEK with a sputter deposited calcium phosphate coating. The cellular response to these surfaces was investigated using MG63 osteosarcoma cells. The sputter deposited coatings were shown to have a negative effect on MG63 cell attachment, measured after one day in culture, but a positive effect on MG63 cell proliferation over seven days in culture. The presence of grooved features on the surface appeared to marginally encourage cell attachment. The highest MG63 cell attachment levels were observed on PEEK with electrohydrodynamically sprayed relics. Although no single surface studied offered both the highest cell attachment and most enhanced cell proliferation, the combination of a calcium phosphate coating with topographical modification has the potential to provide an effective surface for enhancing the cell response to PEEK. The simultaneous use of both topographical and chemical surface modification techniques may also have the potential to encourage a mechanically solid interface with bone <i>in-vivo.</i>