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Published on: March 12, 2021
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Qualitative and quantitative retrieval analysis of a ball-and-socket cervical disc replacement
Jenna M Wahbeh1,2, Sophia N Sangiorgio1,2,3, Sang-Hyun Park1,3
1The J. Vernon Luck, Sr., M.D. Orthopaedic Research Center, The Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children in Alliance with UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
North American Spine Society Journal
|August 12, 2025
Summary
Retrieval analysis of the Porous Coated Motion (PCM) cervical disc replacement revealed migration as the primary cause for removal. Device design may contribute to anterior slippage and subsequent failure.
Area of Science:
- Spinal surgery
- Biomaterials engineering
- Orthopedic device analysis
Background:
- The Porous Coated Motion (PCM) is a ball-and-socket cervical disc replacement.
- Short-term outcomes were positive, but longer-term use showed migration leading to device removal.
- Retrieval analysis is essential to correlate preclinical testing with clinical performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively and qualitatively analyze retrieved PCM devices.
- Identify primary reasons for implant removal.
- Assess the impact of observed damage on device fixation.
Main Methods:
- Postmarket surveillance of 37 retrieved PCM devices.
- Nondestructive analysis: visual, photographic, radiographic examination.
- Metrology, oxidation analysis, and histopathology were performed.
Main Results:
- Twenty-five devices met inclusion criteria; average time-in-vivo was 121 days.
- Anterior migration was the most common removal reason (17 cases).
- Wear debris did not contribute to clinical failure.
Conclusions:
- Most devices were removed due to migration, evidenced by minimal bony ongrowth and lack of extraction damage.
- A posterior depression on the polyethylene ball correlated with anterior slippage.
- The PCM's design may increase stress during extension, leading to migration.
