Abstract

KRIVOY, Saúl; TABASCA, Magaly; DIAZ, Marlon  and  ADELAIDE, Wallens. Discectomía cervical anterior con artrodesis intersomática con cesta de titanio: Experiencia en 102 casos (2002 - 2008). Gac Méd Caracas. [online]. 2009, vol.117, n.4, pp.322-329. ISSN 0367-4762.

Cervical spinal degenerative and discal diseases are among the most common conditions encountered in medical practice. Herniated discs are more common in patients under 40 years of age and degenerative processes are more common after that age. In this study, the most common diagnostic methods and the current criteria for surgical management are reviewed. The author presents his experience of 102 cases with cervical discal and degenerative disease treated by discectomy and fusion through anterior approach, using the titanium cage without use of bone grafts, plates or screws. The main advantages of this technique include shortening of surgical time and fewer instrumentation, immediate stabilization of the cervical spine, early functional recovery and return to normal activities within two weeks with minimal complications, and lower cost.

Keywords : Anterior cervical approach; Titanium cage.