Abstract
The Synex cage is an expanding titanium implant designed for reconstruction of the anterior column in injury, post-traumatic kyphosis or tumour of the thoracolumbar spine. It is supplemented by a stabilizing implant. As it is expandable in situ it therefore can be inserted via a relatively small exposure. The design enables good purchase of the endplates and reduces the possibility of secondary displacement.
Surgery for anterior reconstruction is usually performed via an anterior approach, however, there are incidences were a posterolateral approach is indicated. The Synex cage is useful in these circumstances, as being expandable, posterolateral insertion with preservation of the nerve roots is possible. The Synex cage is then supplemented with a posterior construct. The cage can be inserted via a left or right posterolateral approach. A specially designed angled screwdriver is now available to release the ratchet mechanism and if necessary collapse the cage.
We present, what is, to the best of our knowledge and that of the manufacturer, the first two patients where a Synex cage has been inserted using the posterolateral approach.
Conclusion: Synex cage has the advantage of being expandable and it is therefore possible to insert this via a potentially small exposure, between the nerve roots, using a posterolateral approach
Abstracts prepared by Mr. A. J. Stirling, FRCS, and Miss A. Weaver. Correspondence should be addressed to Miss A. Weaver at the Research and Teaching Centre, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Northfield, Birmingham, B31 2AP, UK
BritSpine 2002, the second combined meeting of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons, the British Cervical Spine Society, The British Scoliosis Society and the Society for Back Pain Research, took place at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham UK between 27th February and 1st March 2002. The following presentations and posters were given and displayed.
