[Current development of research of biodegradable interbody fusion Cage].
OBJECTIVE
To summarize the basic research and the clinical application of biodegradable interbody fusion Cage.


METHODS
Recent literature concerning biodegradable interbody fusion Cage at home and abroad was extensively reviewed, and current developments of the basic research and the clinical application of biodegradable interbody fusion Cage were investigated.


RESULTS
Basic research shows that the stiffness of biodegradable interbody fusion Cage is lower than that of metallic Cage, so it can enhance interbody fusion. As interbody fusion proceeded, biodegradable interbody fusion Cage degrades constantly, but the speed of degradation can not keep in parallel with that of fusion. In addition, the tissue response to degradation products is controversy. Clinical application shows that the biodegradable interbody fusion Cage can enhance interbody fusion and maintain disc space height. The short-term results are good, however, the long-term results need further observation.


CONCLUSIONS
Biodegradable interbody fusion Cage can effectively enhance interbody fusion.
Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan 610041, PR China.
Chunguang
C
Zhou
Yueming
Y
Song
Hao
H
Liu
Limin
L
Liu
Tao
T
Li
Quan
Q
Gong
Jiancheng
J
Zeng
Qingquan
Q
Kong
D020341:Absorbable Implants; D006801:Humans; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000295:instrumentation*