[Multilevel segmental interbody fusion versus vertebral body replacement: comparison of two operative methods].

BACKGROUND

The surgical techniques of interbody fusion and vertebral body replacement represent two concurrent options for multilevel anterior decompression and arthrodesis of the cervical spine.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

In a retrospective study the data from 61 patients who received either interbody fusion (n = 38) as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) or vertebral body replacement (n = 23) (as anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) because of degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine were collected.

RESULTS

The clinical outcome was better at all time points in the patient group with ACDF than in those with ACCF but with no statistically significant differences. The operated segments showed a more rapid fusion progress after ACDF during the time course in comparison to ACCF; however, there was no relationship between the grade of fusion and the clinical result.

CONCLUSION

In direct comparison multisegmental interbody fusion showed better results with respect to the clinical outcome and bony fusion with a lower rate of complications than vertebral body replacement. However, the differences did not reach statistical significance.