Clinical and radiologic analysis of 3-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with interbody cages without plate fixation

Abstract

Objectives: The primary objective of this Study was to analyze the clinical and radiologic outcomes of 3-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedures performed using interbody cages without plate fixation,

Methods: Twenty-two patients with radiculomyelopathy were retrospectively evaluated. Functional Outcome of patients with radiculopathy was assessed using Odom's criteria, and myelopathic patients were rated according to Nurick's classification. Radiographs were used for evaluation of the cervical lordosis, fusion, foraminal height, and implant position.

Results: An excellent or good functional result was found in all of the patients with radiculopathy. In addition, Nurick grades improved from a mean of 2.4 before surgery to a mean of 1.2 at follow-up (P = 0.007). These effects were accompanied by a significant increase in height of the foramina after surgery (P = 0.006). However, there was no statistically significant difference between cervical lordosis before Surgery and at final follow-Lip. Fusion was observed in 17 (77.3%) of the patients, whereas the remaining 5 patients (22.7%) had asymptomatic pseudarthrosis. Of the 66 total cages implanted, subsidence was present in 31 (46.9%). The mean follow-up was 26.1 months.

Conclusions: The use of interbody cages Without plate fixation for 3-level anterior cervical discectomy increases cervical lordosis, increases foraminal height, assists fusion, and is associated with good clinical outcomes.