Non-union after a two-level anterior cervical decompression and fusion with Surgibonetrade mark

Numerous alternative implants have been proposed for cervical fusion, including bovine bone. We report a case of a two level cervical interbody fusion for degenerative disc disease using bovine dowels of Unilab Surgibonetrade mark. We describe the clinical evolution and histological examination after failure of the procedure due to non-union of the Surgibone implants. Alternative grafting substitutes are discussed with respect to their immunological, cytotoxic and osteoinductive aspects. Based on a literature review we conclude that allografts have a significantly better cytological biocompatibility than Surgibonetrade mark and allow a higher fusion rate. The ideal graft remains autologous bone.