Article
Dynamic Cervical Implant (DCI)
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Published: | May 20, 2009 |
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Outline
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Objective: Anterior cervical disc surgery with fusion accelerates adjacent-level degeneration (AD) by segmental loss of motion and abnormal biomechanical stress. That’s why preservation of motion and prevention of adjacent degeneration is actually a major concern in spinal implant development (disc prosthesis).
Methods: DCI developed by the author is in clinical use since 2004. Indications are similar to total disc replacement, with the simplicity of a cage implantation. Statement is preservation of motion as long as possible and avoidance of AD.
Results: In this preliminary study with DCI, segmental motion is mostly preserved. A slow fusion at 18 months is observed in the first treated patient, without AD at 5 years follow-up. Implant migration is avoided by a strict operative technique in the evolution of this study
Conclusions: Cervical spine arthrodesis is involved in AD. Delaying fusion as long as possible with arthroplasty seems wise. Slow fusion may also reduce AD. DCI is an interesting alternative.