Preliminary application of the fusion cage of biomimetic n-HA/PA66 composites in anterior cervical intervertebral fusion / 生物医学工程学杂志

ABSTRACT

This study was aimed to evaluate the preliminary efficacy and the safety of the fusion cage made of biomimetic nano-hydroxyapatite and polyamide 66 (n-HA/PA66) composites for the structural reconstruction and the restoration of height of vertebral body in the case of cervical spondylosis by anterior surgical procedures. 52 patients with cervical spondylosis, received the therapy by discectomy with or without vertebrae resection and decompression, and the fusion cage of n-HA/PA66 vertebra implant with bone chip, and titanium plate system was fixed. All cases were followed up for 6 to 25 months. All the patients' preoperative symptoms subsided without any serious complication, and no patient complained of lasting soreness. No effusion or flare was found, and no recurrence happened in the follow-up. The preoperative JOA score was 10.4, and post-operative JOA score 15.7. The X-ray films of all cases demonstrated successful fusion with good curvature and height, and there was no sinking or collapse. The stability was satisfactory; the reconstructive height of vertebra was maintained. No complications such as infection and screw broken came into being. The fusion cage of the biomimetic n-HA/PA66 composites can effectively restore the height and structure of vertebra. It may have the potential for use as a satisfactory prosthestic vertebral body replacement.