Overview
Cervical or spine implants are orthopedic devices that orthopedic surgeons use to decompress and stabilize the spine. These devices are implanted either from the front (anterior) of the spine or from the back (posterior).
What is a Cervical Implant?
A cervical implant is a medical device used to treat issues in the cervical spine, the uppermost part of the spinal column located in the neck. These implants are typically made of metal, plastic, or a combination of materials, and are used during spinal surgeries to replace damaged discs, provide stability, or promote fusion between vertebrae. Commonly used in procedures like cervical disc replacement or spinal fusion, cervical implants help relieve pain, restore mobility, and support proper spinal alignment. They play a crucial role in treating conditions such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or spinal injuries in the neck.
Cervical Plate Surgical Procedure
Diagnosis: Cervical spine instability or fracture is confirmed through MRI/CT scans.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered before the procedure.
Incision: A small incision is made in the front or back of the neck.
Disc/Vertebrae Access: Damaged disc or vertebra is removed carefully.
Plate Placement: A metal cervical plate is positioned over the affected vertebrae.
Screw Fixation: Screws are inserted to secure the plate in place.
Closure: The incision is closed using staples or sutures
Recovery: Post-operative monitoring and physical therapy follow for healing.
The Aims Of Cervical Spine Surgery Include:
- Reduce pressure on the nerve(s) by decompression (for instance, surgically removing tissues pushing on a nerve).
- Stabilize the cervical spine by fusing 2 or more cervical vertebrae together.
Anterior Cervical Approach Implants
Interbody Cage or Spacers
Cages and spacers are placed between 2 vertebrae. Their purpose is to:
- Keep space between vertebrae (if space gets so narrow, nerve roots may be pinched).
- Preserve spinal alignment (for instance, a healthy neck has a specific curve; a spacer can facilitate restoring this curve).
- Promote spinal fusion (for instance, join (fuse) 2 or more vertebrae together).
Cages are available in various sizes and shapes; some are cylinder-shaped, and others are box-shaped. Cages are placed or fit into the spine between vertebrae. Usually, cages are made from bone, metal, plastic, or carbon fiber. Bone chips (autograft, allograft, other bone graft alternatives, or other bone growth stimulating materials (for instance, demineralized bone matrix) can be packed into the cage. During the months after surgery, the hope is the cage will allow and improve fusion between the vertebrae above and below. Fusion increases spine stability.
Spacers are solid devices and bone cannot be packed inside. A spacer is utilized to facilitate restoring or correct spine alignment.
Anterior cervical plates are attached to the front of 2 or more vertebrae. Bone plates help to:
- Increase the stability of the cervical spine immediately after surgery.
- Increase the chances for a successful solid fusion.
- Stabilize the cervical spine while healing.
- Help to reduce the time the patient can need wearing a cervical collar after surgery.
Plates are made with screw holes through which bone screws are positioned into the adjacent (to be fused) vertebral bodies to anchor the plates into an accurate place. Both plates and screws are available in various sizes and designs. However, most plates are made from metal (mostly titanium); some are produced from plastics. Certain newer plates are manufactured from composite substances that dissolve after fusion happens. Some designs of the plate are self-compressing to help promote spinal fusion.
Artificial Cervical Discs
Spine surgeons of the world have an interest in cervical artificial discs to treat degenerative disease. It’s believed that keeping movement between vertebrae is better than spinal fusion. Early studies report that cervical artificial discs can help slow down the process or prevent adjacent level disc degeneration. The process is called disc arthroplasty. Artificial discs are produced from various materials. Some designs are all plastics and metal composites, and other metal. There are numerous ongoing and some finished FDA trials of artificial discs underway in the United States. Devices are being cleared for sale and implantation as the studies show safety and efficacy compared to fusion in selected cases.
Benefits and Advantages of Cervical Plate Spinal Implants
Spinal Stability: Provides immediate and long-term stabilization of the cervical spine after surgery.
Improved Fusion: Enhances the success rate of spinal fusion by holding vertebrae firmly in place.
Pain Reduction: Minimizes neck pain by preventing abnormal spine movement.
Quicker Recovery: Ensures quick rehabilitation and return to daily activities.
Custom Fit: Available in various sizes and designs for patient-specific anatomy.
Minimally Invasive: Can be implanted using advanced, less invasive surgical techniques.
Durability: Made from strong biocompatible materials for long-term performance.
Why is cervical disk replacement surgery needed?
Cervical disc replacement surgery is needed when a damaged or degenerated disc in the neck causes chronic pain, numbness, or weakness that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy. This condition, often due to herniated discs or cervical disc degeneration, can compress spinal nerves or the spinal cord, leading to severe discomfort and reduced mobility. The surgery involves replacing the problematic disc with an artificial one, helping to relieve nerve pressure while preserving natural neck motion. It is typically recommended for individuals with single-level disc issues who are otherwise healthy and seeking long-term relief from cervical spine problems.
What Are the Risks of Cervical Disk Replacement Surgery?
Cervical disc replacement surgery, while generally safe, carries certain risks. Some of the common complications associated with the surgery may include infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. There is also a possibility of nerve injury, which could lead to numbness, weakness, or chronic pain. In some cases, the artificial disc may shift, wear out over time, or fail to function as intended, potentially requiring revision surgery. Rarely, issues like difficulty swallowing or voice changes may occur. Patients with certain health conditions may face higher risks. It’s essential to discuss all potential complications with a spine specialist before opting for this procedure to ensure informed decision-making.
Conclusion
If your surgeon suggests cervical surgery, you may be encouraged that cervical decompression and stabilization processes are some of the most successful operations spine surgeons perform presently. Overall, patients often have a rapid recovery and quickly return to activities of everyday living with marked improvement of their symptoms.
Siora Surgicals has launched its new orthopedic product range of spine surgery implants or cervical implants which includes Variable Angle Cervical Locking Plate and Cervical Locking Screws in titanium.