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Zero-profile integrated spacer, nonintegrated spacer show similar outcomes in ACDF procedures
In patients who underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedures, a zero-profile integrated plate and spacer device was shown to produce comparable clinical and radiological results compared with nonintegrated plate and spacer devices, according to study findings.
Researchers conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) between August 2008 and October 2011 and received a zero-profile, standalone polyetheretherkeytone interbody spacer. Arm and neck pain, as measured by the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and VAS scores, were recorded and dysphagia, prevertebral soft-tissue thickness, spinal alignment and subsidence were also assessed. Mean clinical follow-up was 18.6 months, and mean radiological follow-up up was 9.76 months.
Significant improvements in neck and arm VAS scores and the NDI following surgery were demonstrated in both groups, according to the researchers.
Among all patients, 58.4% experienced dysphagia immediately after surgery, with complete resolution in 87.8% by the latest follow-up.
Additionally, 92.6% of implants achieved radiographic fusion, according to the researchers.
The researchers did not find a correlation between prevertebral soft-tissue thickness and dysphagia score after ACDF surgery.
Disclosures: James was supported by AOSpine Fellowship funding. Alimi was supported by an educational grant from Baxter. Härtl is a consultant for DePuy Synthes, Lanx, AOSpine and BrainLab.