Author:
Siemionow Kris,Janusz Piotr,Glowka Pawel
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Foraminal stenosis is a common cause of cervical radiculopathy. Posterior cervical cages can indirectly increase foraminal area and decompress the nerve root. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of bilateral posterior cervical cages on the surface area and shape of the neural foramen.
Methods
Radiographic analysis was performed on 43 subjects enrolled in a prospective, multi-center study. CT scans were obtained at baseline and 6- and 12-months after cervical fusion using bilateral posterior cervical cages. The following measurements were performed on CT scan: foraminal area (A), theoretical area (TA), height (H), superior diagonal (DSI), inferior diagonal (DIS), and inferior diagonal without implant (DISI). Comparisons were performed using R-ANOVA with a significance of α < 0.05.
Results
Foraminal area, height, TA and DISI were significantly greater following placement of the implant. The mean (SD) A increased from 4.01 (1.09) mm2 before surgery to 4.24 (1.00) mm2 at 6 months, and 4.18 (1.05) mm2 at 12 months after surgery (p < 0.0001). Foraminal height (H) increased from mean (SD) 9.20 (1.08) mm at baseline to 9.65 (1.06) mm and 9.55 (1.14) mm at 6- and 12-months post-operatively, respectively (p < 0.0001). The mean DIS did not change significantly. There was a significant decrease in DSI: 6.18 (1.59) mm pre-operatively, 5.95 (1.47) mm and 5.73 (1.46) mm at 6- and 12-months (p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
Implantation of bilateral posterior cervical cages can increase foraminal area and may indirectly decompress the nerve roots. Correlation between increase in foraminal area and clinical outcomes needs further investigation.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Orthopedics and Sports Medicine,Surgery
Cited by
26 articles.
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