Anterior Cervical Decompression And Fusion Group Research Articles

The efficacy and safety of mini-open (air/water medium) endoscopy-assisted anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

To compare the clinical efficacy of mini-open (air/water medium) endoscopy-assisted anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (MOEA-ACDF) and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). This study retrospectively analysed the clinical data of CSM patients who received surgical treatment from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical method: the MOEA-ACDF group and the ACDF group. The preoperative and postoperative imaging results at one week and the last follow-up examination were compared between the two groups. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score and neck disability index (NDI) score were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes preoperatively, one week postoperatively and at the last follow-up examination. The minimum follow-up duration was 12 months. A total of 131 CSM patients who underwent surgery at our institution were included, including 61 patients in the MOEA-ACDF group and 70 patients in the ACDF group. In the MOEA-ACDF group, the postoperative C2-C7 Cobb angle and HAVB were significantly greater than the preoperative values (P < 0.05). In the ACDF group, the postoperative C2-C7 Cobb angle was also significantly greater than the preoperative value, and the C2-C7 ROM and HAVB significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The postoperative neurological function of the patients in both groups improved, and the postoperative VAS score and NDI score significantly decreased. Compared with ACDF, MOEA-ACDF is associated with a significantly larger postoperative C2-C7 Cobb angle and significantly better C2-C7 ROM and HAVB, as well as better clinical efficacy (P < 0.05). MOEA-ACDF combines endoscopic systems with ACDF technology to treat CSM, but its clinical efficacy is not inferior to that of ACDF in the short- to intermediate-term. It can effectively and safely restore the cervical intervertebral height, physiological curvature, and range of motion.

Effect of Anterior Cervical Decompression Fusion and Partial Resection of Uncinate Vertebra Joint on Cervical Sagittal Sequence in Patients with Non-Single-Segment Radiculopathy and its Correlation with Curative Effect: A Retrospective Analysis.

Analyze the effect of preservation or resection of the partial uncinate joint on the sagittal sequence of the cervical vertebrae in patients with non-single-segment radiculopathy and the correlation between the sagittal sequence of the cervical vertebrae and the long-term effect after surgery, we explored whether it is necessary to perform partial resection of the uncinate joint in patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy undergoing anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF). The study retrospectively analyzed 96 patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy with more than two segments from August 2016 to January 2021, who underwent ACDF (ACDF group, 45 patients) or ACDF combined with partial uncinate joint resection (ACDF + UT group, 51 patients). Partial resection of the uncinate joint indicated removal of part of the uncinate joint and osteophyte based on the compression of the nerve root during surgery, whereas the uncinate joints in the ACDF group were retained completely. The imaging data and functional scores of the two groups were recorded before surgery, 1 month after surgery, and at the last follow-up. A paired t-test or rank sum test was applied to analyze the data. In addition, the correlation between the imaging parameters and functional scores was validated using the Pearson's test. All 96 patients successfully completed the surgery and were followed up for at least 12months, with an average follow-up time of 14months. At the last follow-up, the pain visual analog scale (VAS), neck disability index (NDI), and neck pain and disability scale (NPAD) scores of the two groups were significantly lower than those before surgery, and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score was significantly higher than that before surgery. At the last follow-up, compared with the ACDF+UT group, the NDI and NPAD scores in the ACDF group decreased more significantly (p < 0.05), and C2-7SVA, △C2-7SVA (the difference between C2-7 SVA at last follow-up and before operation), and T1S values decreased significantly (p < 0.05). The C2-7 Cobb angle was positively correlated with the JOA score and T1S (p < 0.05) and negatively correlated with the VAS, NDI, and NPAD scores and CGH-C7SVA (p < 0.05). C2-7SVA was positively correlated with CGH-C7SVA and T1S (p < 0.05). Patients with non-single-segmental cervical spondylotic radiculopathy and ACDF with or without uncinate joint resection can have effective improvement in the clinical effect and sagittal balance; however, partial uncinate joint resection has a certain negative impact on the long-term reconstruction of sagittal balance and long-term effects in patients after surgery.

Evaluation of enlarged laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation in relieving nerve root symptoms and correcting kyphosis for cervical myelopathy and radiculopathy.

This study aimed to compare the surgical efficacy of enlarged laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation (EL-LMSF) and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) for multilevel cervical myelopathy and radiculopathy (CMR) related to kyphosis. 75 patients were retrospectively reviewed and divided into ACDF and EL-LMSF group. Clinical results including operative time, blood loss, and postoperative complications were compared. The JOA scoring system was used to evaluate spinal cord function and the VAS score evaluate nerve root pain severity. Cervical alignment a C2-C7 was measured with Cobb method and compared to confirm the reconstruction effect. Data on 75 patients (M/F: 41:34; EL-LMSF/ACDF:42/33) with the mean age of 57.5 years (range 43-72 year old) were reviewed retrospectively. Discectomy and/or sub-toal corpectomy in ACDF group was performed with a mean of 3.24 levels (range, 3-4). Enlarged laminectomy in EL-LMSF group was performed with a mean of 3.89 enlarged levels (range, 3-5). The procedure of ACDF group showed a shorter operation time (103 ± 22 min vs. 125 ± 37 min, P = 0.000) and less blood loss (78 ± 15 ml vs. 226 ± 31 ml, P = 0.000) compared than that of the EL-LMSF group. Patients treated with EL-LMSF indicated lower VAS for upper extremity (1.3 ± 1.7 vs. 3.3 ± 1.3, P = 0.003) and better curvature corrected (10.7 ± 4.2° vs. 8.5 ± 3.5°, P = 0.013). The difference were of statistical significance. No statistical difference was found after surgery in the JOA score (14.1 ± 1.7 vs. 13.5 ± 2.1, P = 0.222). During the follow-up period, 15.2% of patients in the ACDF group had complications including 2 cases with transient dysphagia, 1 case with C5 palsy, 1 case with axial pain, and 1 case with screw pullout 3 month after surgery. However, only 9.5% of cases in the EL-LMSF group experienced complications, including 3 cases of axial pain and 1 case of epidural hematoma. The EL-LMSF procedure requires a longer operation time and more blood loss because of the incision of the stenosed foramen. However, the procedure has obvious advantages in relieving nerve root symptoms and correcting cervical curvature with fewer postoperative complications.

Clinical Efficacy of Posterior Percutaneous Endoscopic Unilateral Laminotomy with Bilateral Decompression for Symptomatic Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

ObjectiveTo compare the clinical efficacy of posterior percutaneous endoscopic unilateral laminotomy (PPEUL) and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in the treatment of single‐segment spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).MethodsThis is a retrospective research, from January 2017 to December 2019, 30 cases were included in the PPEUL group and 32 cases were included in the ACDF group. The operative duration, blood loss, length of stay, complications, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, MacNab classification and imaging data were collected preoperatively, postoperative 1‐week, final follow‐up and statistically analyzed.ResultsThe surgery was completed successfully on all patients, and there were no serious complications, such as nerve or spinal cord injury or infection. In the PPEUL and ACDF groups, the operative duration were 56.63 ± 1.40 and 65.21 ± 2.45 min, the intraoperative blood loss were 51.69 ± 3.23 and 50.51 ± 5.48 mL, and the hospitalization duration was 5.75 ± 1.43 and 6.38 ± 2.16 days. The follow‐up period in the PPEUL and ACDF groups was 24.96 ± 1.12 months and 25.65 ± 1.45 months, respectively. There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss between the two groups, but the hospitalization and operative durations in the PPEUL group were significantly shorter than those in the ACDF group (P < 0.05). The VAS scores at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery. The JOA scores at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery, but there was no significant difference between the two groups at the last follow‐up. The intervertebral disc height of the adjacent segment at the last follow‐up was significantly lower in the ACDF group than in the PPEUL group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the two groups in the intervertebral disc height of the surgical segment (P > 0.05). The rate of excellent and good results was 90.0% and 87.5%, respectively. Postoperative cervical CT and MRI showed that the spinal canal was fully decompressed and spinal cord compression was relieved.ConclusionPPEUL has the advantages of reduced trauma, rapid recovery and remarkable curative efficacy, so it is a new choice for the treatment of CSM.

Surgical Treatment of Single Level Cervical Radiculopathy: A Comparison of Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion (ACDF) Versus Cervical Disk Arthroplasty (CDA) Versus Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy (PCF).

This was a retrospective cohort study. The objective of this study is to retrospectively compare the clinical outcomes, complication rates, and reoperation rates among the 4 treatments in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Surgical options for cervical radiculopathy include anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), open posterior cervical foraminotomy (O-PCF), minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy (MI-PCF), and cervical disk arthroplasty (CDA). Retrospective chart review after Review Board approval. Of the 384 patients in the study-257 ACDF, 18 O-PCF, 52 MI-PCF, and 56 CDA. Information was obtained from the charts and compared between the groups. Patients above 18 years of age with single-level, unilateral cervical radiculopathy correlating with magnetic resonance imaging, failure of nonoperative management, and 1-level ACDF, O-PCF, MI-PCF, or CDA with >24 months of follow-up. Neck Disability Index (NDI), Visual Analog Score neck and arm pain, minimum clinically significant difference (MCID), complication rates, and reoperation rates. Operative time was significantly shorter for MI-PCF. Median estimated blood loss was small, but greater with O-PCF compared with other interventions. The length of hospital stay was longest for the ACDF group. At 2 years' follow-up, 36 subjects (9%) had subsequent neck surgery. The most common indication for additional surgery was recurrent symptoms (3.4%) followed by adjacent segment disease (2.6%), pseudoarthrosis (2.1%), adjacent segment disease + pseudoarthrosis (0.5%), and implant-related complications (0.3%). There was no statistically significant difference in complication rates between groups. MCID in NDI was achieved in 40% of MI-PCF subjects, 42% of O-PCF subjects, 66% of CDA subjects and 46% of ACDF subjects. All 4 treatment options confer good clinical results on patients for cervical radiculopathy. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were low and comparable in all 4 groups. MI-PCF had the shortest surgical time and length of hospital stay. More CDA patients achieved MCID in NDI compared with the others, and the rate for additional surgery at 2 years was lowest in the CDA group.

Postoperative Functional Analysis of Double Crush Versus Single Peripheral Nerve Decompression: A Retrospective Study.

Double crush (DC) syndrome patients presenting with C6-7 radiculopathy and median nerve compression in the carpal tunnel report greater nerve irritability and weakness postdecompression than isolated peripheral nerve decompression. We hypothesize that patient-reported outcome is inferior following release at both cervical spine and wrist versus a single site of decompression. Patients that underwent either anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) for C6-C7 radiculopathy, carpal tunnel release (CTR), or both within 5 years (DC) were identified. A total of 477 patients were analyzed (157 DC, 203 CTR, and 117 ACDF). Post-operative outcome Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH), Neck Disability Index, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were collected at an average of 2 years postoperatively. QuickDASH scores were higher in the DC group versus CTR group (36 vs 22, P < .0002). Postoperative disability in the ACDF group was significantly higher than the DC group (50 vs 36, P < .017). There were no differences between ACDF and DC groups in arm pain intensity, but the CTR group demonstrated significantly greater arm pain intensity than the DC group (5.7 vs 3.6, 10-point scale, P < .01). Patients undergoing ACDF and CTR have greater postoperative disability than those undergoing CTR alone, but less postoperative functional disability and pain than ACDF alone, indicating cervical radiculopathy may contribute a greater proportion of long-term disability postoperatively. Additionally, CTR had greater postoperative arm pain than DC patients, potentially indicating high rates of undiagnosed cervical radiculopathy or other sources of arm pain in these patients.

Clinical study on the efficacy and safety of percutaneous endoscopic anterior cervical discectomy in the treatment of cervical disc herniation.

To compare the clinical efficacy of anterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (APECD) and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in the treatment of cervical disc herniation. A total of 115 cases of cervical disc herniation treated in our hospital from May 2016 to August 2018 were selected. The subjects were divided into APECD and ACDF groups. The operation time, intra-operative blood loss, and hospital stay of the two groups were recorded and compared, and the clinical symptoms were recorded at one week, one year, and two years after the operation. The neck and upper limb visual analog scale (VAS) score, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, cervical range of motion (ROM), post-operative cervical lordosis angle and adjacent vertebral body height were compared between the two groups. All 115 patients underwent successful operations. The intra-operative blood loss and operation time in the APECD group were significantly less than those in the ACDF group (P < 0.05). There were no oesophago-tracheal sheaths, carotid artery sheaths, cervical sympathetic trunks, vertebral artery injuries, or dural tears in the two groups. The JOA and VAS scores of the two groups significantly improved from pre- to post-operatively, but there were no significant differences between the two groups at the last follow-up (P > 0.05). The post-operative radiological results showed that the herniated cervical intervertebral disc was removed completely. One year after the operation, the cervical lordosis angle increased significantly in both groups (P < 0.05). However, ROM decreased significantly in the ACDF group (P < 0.05), and there was no significant change in ROM in the APECD group (P > 0.05). The cervical lordosis angle did not significantly differ between the two groups at the last follow-up (P > 0.05), but there was a significant difference in ROM between the two groups at the last follow-up (P < 0.05). In the ACDF group, the height of the adjacent vertebral body increased 1 year after the operation (P < 0.05). In the APECD group, the height of the adjacent vertebral body decreased one year after the operation, but the value was not significantly different from the pre-operative value (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in the height of the adjacent vertebral body between the two groups at the last follow-up (P < 0.05). The incidence of post-operative complications did not significantly differ between the two groups (P > 0.05). APECD is a minimally invasive treatment that is safe and effective. The medium- and short-term effects of APECD and ACDF in the treatment of cervical disc herniation are similar. In addition, APECD is superior to ACDF in the operation time, intra-operative blood loss, and ROM. However, prospective, multicenter studies with longer follow-up periods need to be conducted, and the recurrence rate and intervertebral height loss need to be studied.

Posterior full-endoscopic cervical discectomy in cervical radiculopathy: A prospective cohort study

ObjectivesThis study was conducted to assess the clinical outcomes of using the posterior full-endoscopic cervical discectomy (PECD) in comparison with the conventional anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in treating patients with cervical radiculopathy. Patients and MethodsFrom May 2015 to January 2018, patients with single cervical radiculopathy were enrolled in this study. The operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, and perioperative complications were recorded. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for neck and arm pain, the Neck Disability Index (NDI), and the modified MacNab criteria were used to quantify the postoperative outcomes. ResultsA total of 84 patients were initially enrolled in this study, while three patients were lost during the follow-up. The remaining 81 patients were divided into two groups. Thirty-eight patients underwent conventional ACDF, and the rest 43 patients were treated by PECD procedure. The patients in the ACDF group were slightly older than those in the PECD group (51.4 ± 8.2 VS 46.6 ± 8.8 years old, p = 0.012*). The blood loss and hospital stay were significantly less in patients treated with PECD compared with those undergoing ACDF (p < 0.05*). There were no significant differences in the VAS scores, the NDI, and the modified MacNab criteria between the two groups. The patients in the ACDF group obtained a better Cobb angle and had less operative time compared with those in the PECD group (p < 0.05*). Only mild complications were observed in both groups, with no significant difference (p = 0.28). ConclusionPECD could significantly relieve pain and disability with no severe complication, and the majority of patients were satisfied with this technique. Thus, it is safe and effective to use this procedure in managing patients with cervical radiculopathy as an alternative procedure to ACDF.

Comparative study of curative effect of spinal endoscopic surgery and anterior cervical decompression for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of endoscopic cervical spinal surgery with anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). A total of forty-six CSM patients who were admitted to the Medical School of Chinese PLA and treated with endoscopic spine surgery or ACDF from January 2015 to June 2017 were collected. The patients were divided into the spinal endoscopy group and the ACDF group, according to the operation methods. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss and hospitalization stay of the two groups were recorded and compared. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score before operation, three months, and one year after operation were recorded for intra-group and inter-group comparison. The improvement rates of JOA were compared between the two groups to evaluate the clinical efficacy. There were twenty-two cases in the spinal endoscopy group and twenty-four cases in the ACDF group. The mean operation lasting time, intraoperative blood loss and hospitalization stay in the spinal endoscopy group were significantly lower than those in the ACDF group (P<0.05). The postoperative JOA score of the two groups were significantly higher than those before the operation (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the JOA score before operation, three months and one year after operation between the two groups (P>0.05). The improvement rates in the spinal endoscopy group were not significantly different compared to those in the ACDF group (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in the excellent rate (81.8% vs. 83.3%) between the spinal endoscopy group and the ACDF group (P>0.05). The short-term efficacy of spinal endoscopic surgery and ACDF was equal in the treatment of CSM. The spinal endoscopic surgery was significantly superior to ACDF in reducing the operation time, the intraoperative blood loss and the hospitalization stay.

Posterior foraminotomy versus anterior decompression and fusion in patients with cervical degenerative disc disease with radiculopathy: up to 5 years of outcome from the national Swedish Spine Register.

The long-term efficacy of posterior foraminotomy compared with anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) for the treatment of degenerative disc disease with radiculopathy has not been previously investigated in a population-based cohort. All patients in the national Swedish Spine Register (Swespine) from January 1, 2006, until November 15, 2017, with cervical degenerative disc disease and radiculopathy were assessed. Using propensity score matching, patients treated with posterior foraminotomy were compared with those undergoing ACDF. The primary outcome measure was the Neck Disability Index (NDI), a patient-reported outcome score ranging from 0% to 100%, with higher scores indicating greater disability. A minimal clinically important difference was defined as > 15%. Secondary outcomes were assessed with additional patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). A total of 4368 patients (2136/2232 women/men) met the inclusion criteria. Posterior foraminotomy was performed in 647 patients, and 3721 patients underwent ACDF. After meticulous propensity score matching, 570 patients with a mean age of 54 years remained in each group. Both groups had substantial decreases in their NDI scores; however, after 5 years, the difference was not significant (2.3%, 95% CI -4.1% to 8.4%; p = 0.48) between the groups. There were no significant differences between the groups in EQ-5D or visual analog scale (VAS) for neck and arm scores. The secondary surgeries on the index level due to restenosis were more frequent in the foraminotomy group (6/100 patients vs 1/100), but on the adjacent segments there was no difference between groups (2/100). In patients with cervical degenerative disc disease and radiculopathy, both groups demonstrated clinical improvements at the 5-year follow-up that were comparable and did not achieve a clinically important difference from one another, even though the reoperation rate favored the ACDF group. This study design obtains population-based results, which are generalizable.

Biomechanical comparison of percutaneous posterior endoscopic cervical discectomy and anterior cervical decompression and fusion on the treatment of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy

BackgroundCervical spondylotic radiculopathy is a common spinal disease. The traditional surgical treatment consists of anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF), but it presents problems such as trauma and fusion complications. Percutaneous posterior endoscopic cervical discectomy (PPECD) is a new minimally invasive technology that has produced good clinical outcome, but further biomechanical comparisons are needed to guide the clinical work. The goal of this study was to compare the biomechanical characteristics of the two methods by finite element analysis.MethodOn the basis of the computed tomography scanning data of five cases of cervical spondylosis after PPECD surgery, five cases after ACDF surgery, and five non-surgical patients, software (Mimics 15.0, HyperMesh 12.0, and Abaqus 6.13) was adopted to establish a C1–C7 segment 3D finite element model. We also applied 50 N vertical load on the C1 surface and 1.5 Nm torque, simulated the anteflexion, rear protraction, and left and right lateral flexion and rotation, and observed the stability, stress distribution, and Cobb angular change of the surgical section of the cervical vertebra under different working conditions.ResultThe postoperative model under different working conditions demonstrated poorer stability than the non-surgical group, but the stability of the PPECD group was close to that of the non-surgical group. The stability of the ACDF group was the worst, especially when making lateral bending and posterior extension. The ACDF group also showed significant differences. The PPECD group showed uniform stress distribution, whereas the ACDF group was under large stress, which was primarily concentrated in the internal fixation system. In addition, the implant showed the potential for fracture. The Cobb angle of surgery section of the PPECD group was smaller than that of the ACDF group, and the stability of the section was good.ConclusionFrom the perspective of finite element analysis, the cervical vertebrae after PPECD treatment showed good biomechanical performance and stability.

Comparison of Outcomes Between Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion and Posterior Laminoplasty in the Treatment of 4-Level Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

To compare the outcome of anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) and posterior laminoplasty (LAMP) for treating 4-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Data of 80 patients with 4-level CSM treated using ACDF and another 56 cases treated using LAMP were retrospectively analyzed. Radiologic outcomes evaluated by C2-7 Cobb angle and cervical range of motion (ROM) and functional outcomes evaluated by Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scale score and visual analog scale score for axial pain were compared between the 2 groups. JOA scale score in both groups improved significantly after operation (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the JOA scale score improvement rate between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The C2-7 Cobb angle increased significantly in the ACDF group (P < 0.05) and decreased in the LAMP group (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in C2-7 Cobb angle improvement between the 2 groups (P < 0.05). Cervical ROM decreased in both groups after operation (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in ROM loss ratio between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). Blood loss in the LAMP group was significantly more than in the ACDF group (P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference in operation time between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the complication rate between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). Both ACDF and LAMP were effective in the treatment of multilevel CSM. Compared with LAMP, ACDF is less invasive and may be more suitable for elderly patients with poor tolerance of surgery.

Case control study on Mobi-C cervical artificial disc replacement and anterior cervical decompression MC+fusion for the treatment of cervical spondylosis

To compare the clinical effects and clinical indications between Mobi-C cervical artificial disc replacement (CADR) and MC+ anterior cervical decompression and fusion(ACDF) in treating cervical spondylosis. The clinical data of 100 patients with cervical spondylosis treated ACDF or CADR from June 2009 to June 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 53 males and 47 females, aged from 38 to 70 years old. Among them, 50 cases were treated by ACDF (ACDF group), follow-up time was for 22 to 42 months with an average of (32.24±5.20) months;other 50 cases were treated by CADR (CADR group), follow-up time was for 23 to 48 months with an average of (30.40±5.66) months. Odom criterion was used to evaluate the clinical effects in two groups. JOA score, including sensory function, motor function and bladder function was used to assess the spinal cord function. Preoperative and postoperative responsible intervertebral space heights, cervical curvatures were compared by image data between two groups. All incisions obtained good healing and no serious complications were found. At final follow-up, 30 cases got excellent results, 12 good, 8 fair in ACDF group;and 34 cases got excellent results, 10 good, 6 fair in CADR group;there was no significant difference between two groups(u=4.000, P=0.827). At final follow-up, the scores of sensory function and motor function were obviously improved(P<0.05), and bladder function had not obviously recovered (P>0.05) in two groups;and CADR group in the scores of sensory function and motor function were obviously better than of ACDF group(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in preoperative intervertebral space height, cervical curvature between two groups, and at final follow-up both had different recovered. The recovery of CADR group was obviously better than of ACDF group. CADR can quickly recover normal action for patients and retains the movement. CADR has certain advantages in recovering cervical curvature, improveing sensory function and motor function, but it is not able to completely replace ACDF.

Differential segmental motion contribution of single- and two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

To determine and compare the biomechanical effects of single- and two-level anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) on the re-distribution of the segmental contribution to total cervical range of motion (ROM) in a prospective longitudinal design. Fifty-one patients undergoing either a single- or two-level ACDF due to cervical disc disease were recruited. Functional radiographs were taken preoperatively and then at 3, 6 and 12-month follow-ups. Global ROM of C2-C7, ROM of the treated functional spinal unit (FSU) and the superior and inferior segmental ROMs were then measured. The relative contribution from the FSU and each of the adjacent segments to total cervical ROM were compared pre- and post-operatively within and between the two groups at each of the time points. Single-level ACDF patients demonstrated a significantly greater total cervical ROM at 6 and 12months compared with the two-level ACDF group (p=0.021 and 0.045, respectively). A significantly greater contribution from the FSU to the total ROM was found at 3months in the two-level ACDF group (p=0.016), but the greater contribution shifted to the superior adjacent segment at 6 and 12months (p=0.025 and 0.046). The two-level ACDF group did not demonstrate a significant difference at 3months (p=0.087), but a significant increase in contribution was found at 6 and 12months (p<0.01). Single-level ACDF maintains and restores a more physiological re-distribution of segmental contribution of ROM compared with two-level ACDF, which required longer time to achieve stable FSU immobilization and coupled with significantly increased superior segment contribution.

Incidence of adjacent segment degeneration in cervical disc arthroplasty versus anterior cervical decompression and fusion meta-analysis of prospective studies.

PurposeTo evaluate the incidence of adjacent segment disease (ASD) requiring surgical intervention between anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) and total disc replacement (TDR).BackgroundThe concern for ASD has led to the development of motion-preserving technologies such as TDR. However, whether replacement arthroplasty in the spine achieves its primary patient-centered objective of lowering the frequency of adjacent segment degeneration is not verified yet.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Embase. These databases were thoroughly searched for prospective randomized studies comparing ACDF and TDR. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria for a meta-analysis and were used to report an overall rate of ASD for both ACDF and TDR.ResultsPooling data from 8 prospective studies, the overall sample size at baseline was 1,726 patients (889 in the TDR group and 837 in the ACDF group). The ACDF group had significantly more ASDs compared with the TDR group at 24 months postoperatively [odds ratios (OR), 1.31; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.04–1.64; p = 0.02]. The TDR group had significantly fewer adjacent segment reoperations compared with the ACDF group at 24 months postoperatively (OR, 0.49; 95 % CI, 0.25–0.96; p = 0.04).ConclusionsFor patients with one-level cervical degenerative disc disease (CDDD), total disc replacement was found to have significantly fewer ASDs and reoperations compared with the ACDF. Cervical replacement arthroplasty may be superior to ACDF in ASD. Therefore, cervical arthroplasty is a safe and effective surgical procedure for treating CDDD. We suggest adopting TDR on a large scale.

Rate of Adjacent Segment Disease in Cervical Disc Arthroplasty Versus Single-Level Fusion

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. To compare the reported incidence of adjacent segment disease (ASD) requiring surgical intervention between anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) and total disc arthroplasty (TDA). The concern for ASD has led to the development of motion-preserving technologies such as TDA. To date, however, no known study has sought to compare the incidence of ASD between ACDF and TDA in major prospective studies. A systematic review of IDE and non-IDE trials was performed using PubMed and Cochrane libraries. These databases were thoroughly searched for prospective randomized studies comparing ACDF and TDR. Six studies met the inclusion criteria for a meta-analysis and were used to report an overall rate of ASD for both ACDF and TDA. Pooling data from 6 prospective studies, the overall sample size at baseline was 1586 (ACDF = 777, TDA = 809) and at the final follow-up was 1110 giving an overall follow-up of 70%. Patients after an ACDF had a lower rate of follow-up overall than those after TDR (ACDF: 67.3% vs. TDR: 72.6%, P= 0.01). Thirty-six patients required adjacent-level surgery after an ACDF at 2 to 5 years of follow-up (6.9%) compared with 30 patients after a TDA (5.1%). The corresponding reoperation rate for ASD was 2.4 ± 1.7% per year for ACDF versus 1.1 ± 1.5% per year for TDR. These differences were not statistically significant (P= 0.44). Using a Kaplan-Meier analysis and historical data, we expect 48 patients in the ACDF group and 55 patients in the TDR group to have symptomatic disease at an adjacent level. From a meta-analysis of prospective studies, there is no difference in the rate of ASD for ACDF versus TDA. We also report an overall lower rate of follow-up for patients with ACDF than for those with TDR. Future prospective studies should continue to focus on excellent patient follow-up and accurate assessment of patient symptoms that are attributable to an adjacent level as this has been an under-reported finding in prospective studies. 1.

Comparison of Dysphagia Between Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement and Fusion

Prospective randomized controlled trial. To determine and explain any differences in self-reported dysphagia between patients treated with artificial disc replacement and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF). Dysphagia after anterior cervical spine surgery has in previous studies been evaluated regarding different influencing factors. Surgical technique, number of treated levels, and type of implant has been shown to be of possible importance. One hundred thirty-six patients from a randomized controlled trial between artificial disc replacement and ACDF in 1 or 2 surgical levels were evaluated regarding dysphagia. Evaluation was done with the dysphagia short questionnaire preoperatively, at 4 weeks, 3 months, and 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Reconstruction in the artificial disc replacement group was performed with the Discover artificial disc. Bone graft and anterior plating was used in the ACDF group. Type of implant was blinded to the patients and the surgeon until time of implantation. Demographics and dysphagia short questionnaire levels were similar in both groups preoperative. At 4 weeks of follow-up postoperatively, dysphagia was significantly higher in both groups than baseline levels, P < 0.01. No significant differences were seen between the groups until follow-up at 2 years, which showed significantly higher dysphagia short questionnaire levels in the ACDF group, P = 0.04. The difference was statistically significant in both patients treated with 1- and 2-level surgery, P = 0.029 and P = 0.032, respectively. A logistic regression model showed a stronger association to type of implant than to number of surgical levels. Duration of surgery was highly associated to number of surgical levels but did not differ significantly between types of implant. Long-term postoperative dysphagia could be explained by bulk of implant or decreased motion in the cervical spine. However, it is doubtful if differences between the groups in this study can be interpreted as a clinically important difference. 2.

Randomized, Controlled, Multicenter, Clinical Trial Comparing BRYAN Cervical Disc Arthroplasty With Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion in China

Prospective, randomized, controlled, multicenter clinical trial. To compare outcomes of cervical disc arthroplasty with those of anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in a Chinese population. Cervical disc arthroplasty has been found to be superior to ACDF for maintaining range of motion (ROM) at the index spinal segment and possibly will avoid abnormal stress to adjacent segments. A total of 120 patients from 3 large hospitals in China were randomly assigned to treatment with cervical disc arthroplasty (n = 60) using the BRYAN prosthesis or ACDF (n = 60) and were observed postoperatively for 24 months. The 2 groups had similar preoperative demographics and baseline characteristics including ROM, neck disability index, and visual analogue scale for neck and arm pain. The total disc replacement (TDR) group had a significantly longer operation time than the ACDF group (P < 0.001). Outcome data obtained after 24 months revealed a significant difference between the groups in mean change from baseline in ROM at the index level (P < 0.001); ROM was maintained in the TDR group but reduced in the ACDF group. There were no significant between-group differences in the baseline changes in neck disability index or visual analogue scale scores for pain. One patient in the TDR group and 4 patients in the ACDF group required reoperations. At 24 months after surgery, the cervical disc prosthesis yielded good clinical results while maintaining ROM at the index level. Cervical disc arthroplasty appears to be a viable alternative to ACDF.

Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion Accelerates Adjacent Segment Degeneration

Prospective 10-year follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of patients who underwent anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) and healthy control subjects. To clarify the incidence of adjacent segment degeneration during 10 years after ACDF. There have been few studies which investigated incidence of progression of degenerative changes at adjacent segments in patients treated by ACDF comparing with healthy subjects. Sixty-four patients who underwent ACDF (48 males, 16 females, mean age 47.3 years, mean follow-up 12.1 year) and 201 asymptomatic volunteers who underwent MRI in our previous study (113 males, 88 females, mean age; 41.1 year, mean follow-up; 11.7 years) were included in this study. The patients and control subjects underwent follow-up MRI in this study. Following MR findings were evaluated using a numerical grading system from C2-C3-C7-T1: (1) Decrease in signal intensity of disc (DSI), (2) Posterior disc protrusion (PDP), (3) Disc space narrowing, and (4) Foraminal stenosis. When an increase in at least one grade in any of the radiographic parameters was detected between the 2 time points, progression of disc degeneration was judged as present at the level of interest. Progression of DSI was significantly more frequent in ACDF group than in control group at C4-C5, while progression of PDP was significantly more frequent in ACDF group than in control group at all levels except for C5-C6. Progression of disc space narrowing and foraminal stenosis was significantly more frequent in ACDF group at C3-C4 and at C6-C7, respectively. Although both ACDF patients and control subjects demonstrated progression of disc degeneration during 10 years, ACDF patients had significantly higher incidence of progression of disc degeneration at adjacent segments than control subjects, while progression of disc degeneration at adjacent segments was not always related to development of clinical symptoms.

Comparison of radiographic changes after ACDF versus Bryan disc arthroplasty in single and bi-level cases

The object of this study is to compare radiographic outcomes of anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) versus cervical disc replacement using the Bryan Cervical Disc Prosthesis (Medtronic Sofamor Danek, Memphis, TN) in terms of range of motion (ROM), Functional spinal unit (FSU), overall sagittal alignment (C2-C7), anterior intervertebral height (AIH), posterior intervertebral height (PIH) and radiographic changes at the implanted and adjacent levels. The study consisted of 105 patients. A total of 63 Bryan disc were placed in 51 patients. A single level procedure was performed in 39 patients and a two-level procedure in the other 12. Fifty-four patients underwent ACDF, 26 single level cases and 28 double level cases. The Bryan group had a mean follow-up 19 months (12-38). Mean follow-up for the ACDF group was 20 months (12-40 months). All patients were evaluated using static and dynamic cervical spine radiographs as well as MR imaging. All patients underwent anterior cervical discectomy followed by autogenous bone graft with plate (or implantation of a cage) or the Bryan artificial disc prosthesis. Clinical evaluation included the visual analogue scale (VAS), and neck disability index (NDI). Radiographic evaluation included static and dynamic flexion-extension radiographs using the computer software (Infinitt PiviewSTAR 5051) program. ROM, disc space angle, intervertebral height were measured at the operative site and adjacent levels. FSU and overall sagittal alignment (C2-C7) were also measured pre-operatively, postoperatively and at final follow-up. Radiological change was analyzed using chi(2) test (95% confidence interval). Other data were analyzed using the mixed model (SAS enterprises guide 4.1 versions). There was clinical improvement within each group in terms of VAS and NDI scores from pre-op to final follow-up but not significantly between the two groups for both single (VAS p=0.8371, NDI p=0.2872) and double (VAS p=0.2938, NDI p=0.6753) level surgeries. Overall, ROM and intervertebral height was relatively well maintained during the follow-up in the Bryan group compared to ACDF. Regardless of the number of levels operated on, significant differences were noted for overall ROM of the cervical spine (p<0.0001) and all other levels except at the upper adjacent level for single level surgeries (p=0.2872). Statistically significant (p<0.0001 and p=0.0172) differences in the trend of intervertebral height measurements between the two groups were noted at all levels except for the AIH of single level surgeries at the upper (p=0.1264) and lower (p=0.7598) adjacent levels as well as PIH for double level surgeries at the upper (p=0.8363) adjacent level. Radiological change was 3.5 times more observed for the ACDF group. Clinical status of both groups, regardless of the number of levels, showed improvement. Although clinical outcomes between the two groups were not significantly different at final follow-up, radiographic parameters, namely ROM and intervertebral heights at the operated site, some adjacent levels as well as FSU and overall sagittal alignment of the cervical spine were relatively well maintained in Bryan group compared to ACDF group. We surmise that to a certain degree, the maintenance of these parameters could contribute to reduce development of adjacent level change. Noteworthy is that radiographic change was 3.5 times more observed for ACDF surgeries. A longer period of evaluation is needed, to see if all these radiographic changes will translate to symptomatic adjacent level disease.