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Hollow cylindrical polymethylmethacrylate strut for spinal reconstruction after single-level cervical corpectomy
Jyi-Feng Chen1, Chieh-Tsai Wu, Sai-Cheung Lee
1Department of Neurosurgery, Neurospinal Section, Chang Gung University, Medical College and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Republic of China. chenjf@adm.cgmh.org.tw
Journal of Neurosurgery. Spine
|October 20, 2006
Summary
Hollow cylindrical polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) struts are safe and effective for cervical spine fusion after corpectomy. This study shows satisfactory clinical results and good fusion rates with PMMA struts, offering a viable option for spinal reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Fusion Techniques
Background:
- Cervical corpectomy requires robust spinal reconstruction.
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a biomaterial with potential applications in spinal surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and clinical outcomes of using hollow cylindrical PMMA struts for cervical spine fusion.
- To assess the efficacy of PMMA struts in spinal reconstruction after single-level cervical corpectomy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 54 patients undergoing single-level cervical corpectomy and reconstruction with PMMA struts.
- Anterior cervical plates were used for reinforcement; PMMA struts were filled with autologous bone.
- Radiographic (lateral dynamic, CT) and neurological (Nurick Scale) assessments were performed postoperatively.
Main Results:
- All 54 patients achieved spinal stability by 12 months.
- Complete osseous fusion was observed in 80.4% by 12 months and in all patients by 24 months.
- Significant improvement in Nurick Scale grade (2.94 to 1.71, p < 0.05) was noted, with no PMMA-related complications.
Conclusions:
- Hollow cylindrical PMMA struts are safe for cervical fusion post-corpectomy.
- PMMA struts provide satisfactory clinical results and serve as a viable substitute for spinal reconstruction.
- The combination of PMMA struts and plate fixation is effective in anterior cervical single-level corpectomy.