Early experiences with cervical disc prostheses.
UNLABELLED: The standard cervical disc surgery includes removal of the disc and fusion using an anterior approach. The loss of motion associated with fusion has prompted a search for other options. Early experiences and results after implantation of disc prostheses allowing for biomechanical motion of healthy discs are evaluated in this study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 51 prostheses were implanted in 50 patients using an anterior approach. Follow-up ranged from one month to 14 months. RESULTS: The only significant complications were haemorrhages in two cases requiring surgical removal but otherwise all patients had an uneventful recovery. No infection or dislocation of the implants or formation of new spondylophytes have been noted yet. Resolution of pain and neurological disorders were excellent with a back-to-work rate of 80 % at three months after surgery. CONCLUSION: As the implantation of cervical disc prostheses carries no obvious risk higher than the risk of conventional anterior fusion, further analysis of its practicability and long-term outcome is recommended.