Artikel
First experiences with a new titanium spacer for anterior lumbar interbody fusion
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Autoren
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T. Ernstberger
- Klinikum der Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Orthopädische Klinik und Poliklinik, Göttingen
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F. König
- Göttingen
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J. Krull
- Göttingen
| Veröffentlicht: | 13. Juni 2005 |
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Gliederung
Text
Introduction
Considering anterior lumbar interbody fusion devices have been developed to make disc space fixation easier. In dependence of the implant form and material properties there are different demands on the implantation. In this study a new titanium spacer was evaluated concerning its intra- and postoperative implant characteristics.
Patients and methods
The titanium spacer have a square shape and is available in different heights. With regard to the lumbar lordosis the upper implant surface have a dorsal slope of 7º. For a good contact to the neighbouring vertebras this implant have toothed rips on its corresponding surfaces. Additionally a central hole can be filled with autologous bone. The titanium devices were implanted with a press-fit-technique. Only patients with advanced degenerative changes of the lumbar spine were treated with this new device.
Results
In a first series we implanted 23 titanium spacer in 17 patients. 8 patients represented a clear degenerative spondylolisthesis, 3 patients demonstrated a degenerative lumbar scoliosis. Considering the radiological follow up no implant dislocation could be recognized. By the majority a satisfied reconstruction of the sagital lumbar profile could be achieved. Most of the patients described a clear pain reduction of the initial lumbar pain.
Discussion
The development of a new titanium device took place with consideration of the bioinert material properties. The implant design permit a safe implantation without complex treatment of the disc space followed by good clinical results. Compared with x-ray-transparent materials the intra- and postoperative radiological evaluation of the implant postion become easier.
