[Application of intervertebral carbon implants for the treatment of cervical disk herniation].
BACKGROUND
We are presenting our preliminary experience with the cervical intervertebral carbon cages (CICC) as a treatment option for interbody fusion in cases with cervical disk herniation.


METHODS
For the period 08.2003-08.2004, 33 CICC were been implanted in 20 patients. Mean age--45 years, M:F = 12:8. In 10 cases (50%) we implanted 1 CICC, in 8 (40%)--2, in 1 (5%)--3, and in 1 (5%) case we implanted 4 CICC. In 40% the affected level was C5-6, in 30%--C6-7, in 15%--C3-4 and in 15%--C4-5. Large CICC (L) were used in 11 cases and small (S)--in 22. The most frequently used height of the CICC was 5 mm.


RESULTS
In all the cases of our series CICC ensured the preservation of normal anatomical relationships in the treated segment and avoidance of the donor-site morbidities. No additional surgical time was needed for the procedure. No complications related to the CICC implantation were observed. A favorable clinical outcome has been observed in all cases.


CONCLUSIONS
Our preliminary experience confirmed that the CICC present a safe and reliable alternative to the allo- and autogenous bone grafts.
Gabrovski
N
N
Krŭstev
E
E
Gabrovski
S
S
Uzunov
K
K
Poptodorov
G
G
Kondov
S
S
D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome