Heterotopic ossification after cervical disc replacement: clinical significance and radiographic analysis. A

Patrick Guérin1, Ibrahim Obeid, Anouar Bourghli

  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France. pguerin_patrick@yahoo.fr

Insights

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a common complication after cervical disc replacement (CDR) with the Mobi-C artificial disc, occurring in 27.7% of cases. This study found HO did not significantly impact clinical outcomes or range of motion (ROM).

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Spinal Surgery
  • Biomaterials

Background:

  • Heterotopic ossification (HO) following cervical disc replacement (CDR) is not well-documented.
  • Understanding HO incidence and risk factors after CDR is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of HO after Mobi-C CDR.
  • To identify potential risk factors for HO development.
  • To evaluate the impact of HO on clinical outcomes and range of motion (ROM).

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 71 patients undergoing Mobi-C CDR.
  • Radiological evaluation for HO grading and ROM assessment at a mean 21-month follow-up.

Main Results:

  • HO was detected in 23 treated segments (27.7%).
  • Mean ROM increased from 8.1° preoperatively to 10.2° postoperatively.
  • No significant correlation found between HO and clinical outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • HO is a frequent occurrence after Mobi-C CDR.
  • No specific risk factors were identified in this cohort.
  • Further long-term studies are necessary to ascertain the clinical significance of HO.

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