The application of allograft fusion cage for cervical spinal anterior interbody fusion / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the effects of allograft fusion cage(AFC) on anterior cervical interbody fusion. Methods AFCs were implanted in 61 degenerative cervical intervertebral spaces of 39 cases, who needed anterior cervical interbody fusion from September 1995 to December 1999. 31 cases were diagnosed as cervical spondylolysis， 2 cases as acute protrusion of cervical intervertebral disc and 6 cases as fracture and dislocation of cervical spine. The clinical effects and complications were observed, and the postoperative presentations of X－ ray examination of cervical spine were also evaluated. Results Thirty- nine cases were followed up with a mean period of 28.6 months. No neurologic complications appeared, and no AFCs shifted or dislocated. The clinical effects were satisfactory. 61 intervertebral spaces were confirmed to be solid fused completely by constant X－ ray examination at 3.9 months in average after operation. There were no collapse or angular deformities in 59 spaces of them,the other 2 spaces lost a little height because of removal of external fixation too early. Conclusion The implantation of AFC was simple, stable, less injury with similar intervertebral osseous fusion rate compared to the conventional anterior cervical interbody fusion. Forthermore, the implantation of AFC does not need auto iliac crest graft or the use of metal fixations. Some complications caused by implanting auto iliac crest and metal fixations can be avoided.