[Application of intervertebral carbon implants for the treatment of cervical disk herniation]

We are presenting our preliminary experience with the cervical intervertebral carbon cages (CICC) as a treatment option for interbody fusion in cases with cervical disk herniation.

For the period 08.2003-08.2004, 33 CICC were been implanted in 20 patients. Mean age--45 years, M:F = 12:8. In 10 cases (50%) we implanted 1 CICC, in 8 (40%)--2, in 1 (5%)--3, and in 1 (5%) case we implanted 4 CICC. In 40% the affected level was C5-6, in 30%--C6-7, in 15%--C3-4 and in 15%--C4-5. Large CICC (L) were used in 11 cases and small (S)--in 22. The most frequently used height of the CICC was 5 mm.

In all the cases of our series CICC ensured the preservation of normal anatomical relationships in the treated segment and avoidance of the donor-site morbidities. No additional surgical time was needed for the procedure. No complications related to the CICC implantation were observed. A favorable clinical outcome has been observed in all cases.

Our preliminary experience confirmed that the CICC present a safe and reliable alternative to the allo- and autogenous bone grafts.