Abstract
Following studies in 2007-08 comparing cervical discs devices, satisfaction and accuracy of operated and adjacent levels was observed with titanium devices. Patients were followed up and surgical assessments recorded.
MRI with 12 patients were first assessed for imaging quality. Two independent radiologists scored twice sagittal and axial T2 – weighted images using the Jarvik four point scale. Statistical analysis was performed on operated and adjacent levels and between devices. Length of surgery, blood loss, approach and time of exposure to radiation were recorded. Patients were followed up at two years.
BAGUERA C containing titanium metal allowed satisfactory visualization of the canal, exit foramina, cord and adjacent levels. PCM and PRODISC C visualization was significantly impaired at operated level and in both spinal cord and neural foramina. At adjacent levels, image quality was statistically poorer for those two devices. 6 patients were operated at C5-C6 and 6 at C6-C7. Mean age was 49. Approach was from the right, length of surgery and blood loss were: mean 46 min and 16.25 cc for BAGUERA C; mean 70 min and 27.5 cc for PCM and mean 63 min with 26.25 cc for PRODISC C. Exposure to radiation presented also significant difference between devices. Clinical outcomes reveal similar VAS and patient's satisfaction scores.
Titanium device with polyethylene allow for satisfactory monitoring with adequacy in the assessment of neural decompression. BAGUERA C surgical outcomes indicate potential benefits that may be related to technique and simplicity of implantation.
