Anterior cervical dissectomy with intervertebral bioactive glass-ceramic prostheses replacement

• Published in: International Congress series Vol. 1247; pp. 587 - 589
• Main Authors: Vaverka, M., Hrabalek, L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-12-2002
• Subjects: Grafting; Implant; Spine; Implant; Spine; Grafting
• ISSN: 0531-5131; 1873-6157
• DOI: 10.1016/S0531-5131(02)01167-6

The authors present their experiences with bioactive glass-ceramic prostheses in anterior cervical dissectomy (ACD) for treatment of a variety of cervical spinal disorders, including spondylosis, degenerative disc disease and trauma. This study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and advantage of bioactive glass-ceramic prostheses with classic tricortical autograft in ACD.
From December 1997 until July 1998, 48 glass-ceramic prostheses were implanted in 32 patients and follow-up in all cases was for 3 years. The authors had two sizes of prostheses available, which were sufficient for all levels of cervical spine disorders, regardless of sex and age. The prostheses, with or without metal anterior plating, were used for replacement of intervertebral discs in one to three levels in one patient. All patients had X-ray and CT or MRI control 1 year after operation. No failures, i.e., breakage, release or malposition of the prosthesis were found, and in no cases did X-ray and CT show changes such as irritation, loosening or extrusion of the prosthesis.
The authors emphasize the advantages of this method in comparison with typical tricortical grafting. The glass-ceramic prostheses show greater mechanical strength than do human cortical bone and are capable of bonding directly with adjacent living bone tissue (chemical bonding). Construction of the implant supports the early achievement of stability in the operated spinal segment and, in most cases, the plating procedure is not necessary for safe infusion. Other benefits of glass-ceramic prostheses are shorter operating time and elimination of donor site complications.