Cervical monosegmental interbody fusion using titanium implants in degenerative, intervertebral disc disease

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Spinal Fusion Techniques

Background:

• Cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy significantly impact patient quality of life.
• Traditional spinal fusion methods carry risks of complications and prolonged recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel titanium implant for cervical spinal fusion.
• To assess patient outcomes in terms of pain relief and neurological deficit resolution.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, non-randomized study of 54 patients undergoing microsurgical anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.
• Utilized cancellous bone-tissue-filled titanium implants without the need for additional bone plating.
• Postoperative assessment included clinical, neurological, and radiological evaluations at 6 weeks and 3 months.

Main Results:

• 98% of patients experienced relief from radicular pain; 78% were free of non-radicular neck/shoulder pain.
• 89% of motor radicular deficits resolved completely, with significant improvement in others.
• Radiological imaging confirmed correct implant positioning and solid bony ingrowth in all assessed patients.

Conclusions:

• Cancellous bone-tissue-filled titanium implants represent a safe and effective alternative to conventional cervical fusion.
• Advantages include avoiding iliac crest bone graft complications, reduced hospitalization, and good biocompatibility.
• While initial results are excellent, long-term outcome data are still pending.