Anterior intervertebral disc excision and bone grafting in cervical spondylotic myelopathy

An analysis of 121 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy treated by anterior excision of the disc and fusion was undertaken. All patients were followed at least six months, and follow-up averaged 22 months. Results showed that 97.5% of patients had no aggravation of symptoms, 90.9% were improved, and 72.6% were able to resume normal activity. Surgical intervention can greatly improve the prospects of patients with severe cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and its use should not be lightly ruled out. Autografts yield higher fusion rates and better overall results than homografts. Selection of the number and level of discs to be excised depends upon clinical and roentgenographic indications, as well as the myelogram and the amount of fluid injected into the discs.