Anterior Cervical Interbody Fusion Using a Plate Cage System in Degenerative Cervical Disease

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The plate cage system is an intradiscal cage combining with an integrated plate. To evaluate its suitability for an clinical application, the authors present a retrospective analysis of outcome assessment of our series. METHODS: From March 1998 to November 2001, fifty three patients with degenerative cervical disease underwent anterior cervical interbody fusion with the PCB(R)(PCB(R) instrument, SCIENT'X, Paris, France). Single level fusion was accomplished in 31 patients, two levels in 19 patients, and three levels in two patients. RESULTS: All patients were improved without intraoperative complications ; excellent in 28(52.9%), good in 15(28.3%), and satisfactory in 10(18.8%). Four cases of screw loosening were identified, however, there was no cage backout, worsening of symptom or reoperation due to screw loosening. The bony fusion was confirmed in all patients by cervical flexion and extension X-ray and computed tomography during follow-up. CONCLUSION: The design of this plate cage system appears to prevent bone-graft recipient site and donor site complications, provides immediate stability, and restores height and lordosis.