Anterior Discectomy and Fusion with Plate Fixation for Cervical Disc Herniation

Chung, Jae Yoon; Lee, Keun Bae; Yi, Ki Tae

Abstract

The anterior discectomy is widely accepted method for removal of the herniated disc material of cervical spine due to direct visualization of the lesion site. In addition, it is believed to prevent recurrence of herniation, progression of degenerative change, and to preserve normal cervical lordosis after the fusion. For more effective anterior fusion and early postoperative ambulation without prolonged external support, internal fixation technique was introducsuspected to influence the result of operation, the type of bone graft and age of the patient may be the effective factors to the late result. ed. Authors reviewed 36 patients with cervical disc herniation and evaluated the result of anteior discectomy and fusion with plate fixation. With a mean follow up of 34 months, there were remarkable symptomatic improvement at most instances and bony union in situ within 3 months in all cases after the operation. Disclosed complications were 2 cases of hoarseness which was improved spontaneously, and 1 case of dysphagia. At the comparison of the effect of the factors which were suspected to influence the result of operation , the type of bone graft and age of the patient may be the effective factors to the late result.