The Long‐Term Quality of Life Study for Patients Received Chest Wall Reconstruction by Using 3D ‐Printed PEEK Implants

Background For the repair of chest wall defects, three‐dimensional‐printed PEEK implants show great potential due to their excellent anatomical matching and mechanical properties. However, Quality‐Of‐Life assessments after using these implants in chest wall reconstruction remain underexplored. Methods A retrospective cohort study included 20 patients who underwent chest wall defect reconstruction with 3D‐printed PEEK implants at our center between April 2017 and June 2024 and were followed up long‐term. Clinical data collected at various time points included safety indicators (long‐term adverse reactions, blood routine, hepatic and renal function), respiratory function assessments (pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas analysis), Quality‐Of‐Life indicators (SF‐36 health survey). Results Through a median follow‐up of 35.3 months, we found that personalized PEEK thoracic rib implants achieved precise anatomical reconstruction and effective respiratory dynamics maintenance. Complete recovery of preoperative hematological parameters ( p > 0.05) and liver/kidney function confirmed their biochemical safety. ≥ 1 year after surgery, the restrictive ventilation function of the patients was still lower than that before the operation, and the CO 2 excretion increased ( p < 0.05), but the alveolar ventilation function wasn't impaired. Oxygenation was normal ( p > 0.05). The patient's physical health scores (SF‐36 PCS) remained unchanged from preoperative levels ( p > 0.05), while psychosocial functioning (SF‐36 MCS) showed significant improvement ( p < 0.05). Conclusions 3D‐printed PEEK implants used in chest wall reconstruction exhibited favorable safety and were associated with improved long‐term Quality Of Life. These findings support that PEEK reconstruction may contribute to a combined benefit of disease control, functional preservation, and psychological recovery.