Acute Paraplegia Due to Nucleus Herniation of a Mobi-C Implant without Trauma: Case Report of a Rare Complication

Abstract

Cervical artificial discs (CADs) are a surgical option in selected patients with cervical spinal disc degeneration. Although CADs have been available for many years, concerns persist regarding long-term safety, durability, and implant-related failure. We report a case of nucleus herniation of a Mobi-C implant without trauma, which is a rare complication. Two years after implantation of a Mobi-C implant, a 47-year-old man presented with acute paraplegia without a history of trauma. On cervical magnetic resonance imaging, a T2-high signal intensity lesion was noted in the ventral aspect of the spinal cord at the T1-2 level. During emergent surgery, nucleus herniation of the Mobi-C was detected. After surgery, the patient could walk without assistance. Posterior herniation of the Mobi-C nucleus without trauma is a rare complication that should be considered in surgical planning and follow-up.