Spinal angulation after anterior discectomy and graftless fusion

A study was made to assess the degree of kyphotic angulation after anterior cervical discectomy and graftless fusion. The possibility of a progressive increase in kyphotic angle was also examined. Fifty-two consecutive patients presenting for review after anterior cervical discectomy and graftless fusion were examined through the use of lateral cervical radiographs and the presence and degree of kyphotic angulation was examined. The majority of operated levels (66%) demonstrated 0-5 degrees of kyphotic angulation and a further 14 (24%) demonstrated between 6 degrees and 10 degrees of kyphotic angulation.