Why is a PEEK spinal cage used in spinal fusion?

After a disc or other tissue is removed, the cage fills the space between neighbouring vertebrae. Its shape helps maintain the planned height and position of that space. Bone graft placed inside or around the cage can gradually form a bridge between the bones. PEEK is designed to be sturdy while allowing the bone around it to be seen more clearly on many imaging studies than some dense metals.

A cage is one part of a fusion construct. Plates, rods, screws or other supports may be added when extra stability is needed. The exact choice depends on the spinal level, surgical route, bone condition and the goal of treatment.

Use the brace or walking plan only as directed, protect the incision, and avoid lifting or twisting until your surgeon permits it. Smoking and some health conditions can interfere with bone healing, so discuss them before the operation. Keep scheduled imaging visits even if pain improves.

Call your care team about a draining or increasingly red wound, fever, worsening pain, new numbness or weakness, or a sudden change in walking. Loss of bladder or bowel control or rapidly worsening weakness requires emergency assessment.

Ask which spinal levels are involved, what graft will be used, whether fixation accompanies the cage, and which movements could disrupt early healing. See [PEEK Spinal Cage](/materials/peek-spinal-cage/) and [Spinal Fusion](/treatments/spine-care/spinal-fusion/) for related explanations.