Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with polyetheretherketone cages in the management of single and double level cervical spondylotic myelopathy-our experiences of 80 cases

Abstract

Background: Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion (ACDF) is challenging with respect to both patient selection and choice of surgical procedure.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with an artificial cage made of polyetheretherketone

Materials & Methods: From January 2012 to January 2017, 80 consecutive patients referred to the Department of spine surgery, Bangabandhu Shekh Mujib Medical University were recruited for the study. Postoperative Clinical outcome assessed with Nurick scale for myelopathy, Odom's criteria for functional outcome and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for both neck and arm pain. Radiological fusion was assessed by X-ray. Operative complications were reported.

Results: 36 patients were operated for one level discectomy and fusion with PEEK cages and 44 patients for two levels. There were 48 (60%) males and 32 (40%) females. The age of the patients ranged from 30-72 years, a mean ± SD 45 ± 8.34. At the 2 years clinical follow-up, there were significant post operative improvements of Nurick scale, and VAS comparative to preoperative record. According to Odom's criteria, 72/80 patients (90%) were graded excellent-good.

Conclusion: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage is an effective treatment of cervical myelopathy having higher fusion rate and lack of donor site morbidity.

KYAMC Journal Vol. 9, No.-1, April 2018, Page 32-34