INDICATIONS

1. One or two levels of anterior compression (caused by contained HNP and /or neurocentral osteophytes) with radiculopathy or myelopathy.
2. Focal compressive lesion should be documented by Myelo-CT or MRI.
3.Following at least six weeks failed conservative treatment, if appropriate e.g. Acute progressive neurology, or severe non-responsive pain, procedure should not be delayed.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

• Neck or arm pain of unknown etiology.
• Marked instability (Translation > 3mm)
(Rotation 10° > than rotation at adjacent levels).
• Failed previous de compressive / fusion surgery.
• Severe facet joint disease.
• Cervical spinal stenosis (AP diameter < 10mm).
• Post-traumatic affected vertebral bodies.
• Component allergies (Titanium / Cobalt / Polyethylene)
• Ossification of PLL
• Severe spondylosis with absence of movement (e.g. Total loss of disc height, osteophytes)
• Metabolic bone disease
- Osteoporosis (as determined by bone density studies)
- Other (Pagets, Osteomalacia, Ankylosing Spondylitis etc.)
• Morbid Obesity
• Drugs interfering with bone or soft tissue healing
• Active malignancy

CERVICAL MODIFIERS

1. Not recommended in patients with psychological , behavioural disorders, or chronic whiplash related syndromes.
2. Single level only if adjacent to previous fusion.
3. Patient must be informed that long term results are still outstanding.

(THIS PROTOCOL WAS DISCUSSED AND APPROVED AT THE AGM OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN SPINE SOCIETY: JUNE 16, 2005, BLOEMFONTEIN, and reviewed and modified in NOVEMBER 2007.)

This page was updated: 15 January, 2008