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Published on: June 6, 2025
Bony fusion through an empty cervical disc interspace implant
J Schröder1, C Schul, M Hasselblatt
1Department of Neurosurgery, University Clinics Münster, Münster, Germany. j.schroder@web.de
Objective:
Today most cervical intervertebral implants (cages) have at least one cranio-caudal hole which can be filled to facilitate bony fusion. Whether this should be done or not remains a matter of debate. The assessment of bony fusion remains difficult, especially in titanium implants. Evaluation is therefore reserved for problem cases and revisions.
Patients And Methods:
We report one case with recurrent problems years after anterior cervical discectomy followed by the implantation of a titanium cage without an additional bone grafting procedure. The patient was revised and the contents of the cage examined histologically.
Results:
The case was considered fused on plain radiograph investigation. Histological examination showed solid bone formation through the hollow interspace.
Conclusion:
Solid bone formation through an empty implant is possible. In the discussion about bone substitutes or bone graft alternatives this fact should be taken into account.
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