Anterior Cervical Interbody Fusion with Cylindrical Cage (AMSLU)

Abstract

Anterior cervical interbody fusion by using plate and screw system is a well-known procedure in surgical management of the cervical disc herniation. However, the degree of fusion, postoperative orthosis bracing period, instrument-related sequelae and donor site complication were still the matters of concerns. AMSLU cage is a newly developed instrument, which utilizes the key-stone graft concept in posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Author tried to demonstrate the short-term eligibility of AMSLU cage in cervical disc herniation.

The author investigates 16 patients who undergone anterior cervical fusion by using AMSLU cage during the period between January 2001 and February 2002. Retrospective study concerning clinical and radiological features was performed.

1. Mean average follow-up period was 4.8±0.28 months. 2. Enhanced disc height was seen in all cases. 3. Symptomatic improvement was found in 15 cases (94%). 4. All procedures were conducted on single level. C5-6 was the most commonly involved level (10 cases). 5. Evidence of bone fusion was found by the time postoperative 4 weeks in all cases regardless of autograft or allograft. 6. No surgery-related or instrument-related complications were seen.

Anterior cervical interbody fusion with AMSLU cage has several advantages over the preexisting instruments, such as its easiness to handle, avoidance of donor site complications, its anatomical contour which enables it to endure lateral shearing force, and its relatively large contact area. The author gained satisfactory short-term result without significant complication.