Use of a disposable implant system for one-level lumbar fusion surgery had a significantly lower environmental impact compared with a reusable implant system, mainly due to the impact of the steam sterilization process in hospitals and the size of the reusable surgery instrument sets, according to results.

Alexander Leiden and colleagues performed a comparative life cycle assessment to assess the overall environmental impacts of reusable (Viper, Depuy Synthes) and disposable (New Pedicle Screw System, Neo Medical SA) instrumentation and implant sets for one-level lumbar fusion surgery. Researchers conducted power measurements for critical processes, and calculated the cumulative energy demand, abiotic depletion potential, global warming potential, acidification potential and particular matter as selected impact categories. Researchers also used a single score indicator (ReCiPe Endpoint) to aggregate 18 different impact categories contributing to human health, ecosystem quality and resource availability.