Sentinel sign in standalone anterior cervical fusion: Outcomes and fusion rate.

BACKGROUND: The authors aim to demonstrate the feasibility, outcomes and fusion rate of a standalone PEEK cage in the outpatient setting. METHODS: 48 consecutive patients undergoing standalone ACDF (S-ACDF) (Group 1) were compared to control group of 49 patients who had ACDF with ACP (Group 2). RESULTS: Analysis of follow-up at the one year period postoperative outcomes between groups 1 and 2 demonstrated no intergroup statistical significant difference in VAS neck, arm and NDI scores p = 0.414, 0.06 and p = 0.328 respectively. CONCLUSION: We conclude that S-ACDF can be safely done in an ambulatory surgery center with satisfactory clinical and patient-reported outcomes.