Objective To summarize the physicochemical properties, manufacturing technique, and biological characteristics of porous tantalum and its application progress and related problems in spinal surgery. Methods The domestic and foreign related literature about porous tantalum was summarized and analyzed. Results Porous tantalum is characterized by high porosity, high coefficient of friction, low elastic modulus, good biocompatibility, and superior osseointegration capability. Its manufacture methods include chemical vapor deposition and infiltration technique, foam impregnation and powder metallurgy technique, and heat treatment method. Good clinical efficacy has achieved in the application of porous tantalum interbody fusion Cage in cervical and lumbar fusion surgery, but there is controversy in spinal fusion rate, especially in cervical fusion rate. Surface modification can increase the osseointegration capability of porous tantalum and intervertebral bony fusion. Conclusion Good clinical efficacy has achieved in the application of porous tantalum interbody fusion Cage in lumbar fusion surgery, while there is a dispute in cervical fusion surgery. In order to further observation, studies with more patients and longer follow-up would be needed.