Efficacy Of Anterior Cervical Decompression With Plating For Cervical Spondylosis A Case Series

Abstract

Introduction – Cervical spondylosis, a prevalent degenerative musculoskeletal disorder, primarily afflicts the cervical spine. This condition results from age-related changes, including intervertebral disc degeneration, osteophyte formation, and facet joint alterations. Clinical manifestations often encompass neck pain, stiffness, and neurological symptoms due to nerve impingement, necessitating a comprehensive medical comprehension for effective management and therapeutic intervention. Anterior cervical decompression surgery is a neurosurgical procedure aimed at alleviating spinal cord or nerve root compression in the cervical spine. It involves the removal of pathological structures such as herniated discs or osteophytes through an anterior approach. This surgical intervention is employed to mitigate symptoms and enhance neurological function in cervical spine disorders.
The current study aims at assessing the efficacy of anterior cervical decompression and spinal fusion procedure, in wake of other treatment modalities as conservative 1 - stress management and postural advices, using single pillow at night times, yoga and Alexander technique however no sufficient data is available to support this treatment modality and largely depends on treating physicians experience and patient factors. Other treatment options like disc arthroplasty, posterior cervical discectomy and fusion and removal of vertebral body and fixing cages, are also discussed in this article and why ACDF is a better option for patients hailing from developing countries with poor socioeconomic backgrounds.
Materials and methods- Total of 50 patients treated in Gsl Medical College, Rajahmundry and regular follow up was done till 1 year post op period, Clinical assessment was done using mJOA score and VAS score the mean was calculated at 1 year follow up period.Study was carried from March 2022-march 2024.
Results – At 1 year follow up period the mean mJOA score was 17 and mean VAS score 0.58. The neurological outcome was excellent 25 (50%), good 18(36%) fair 5(10%), poor 2(4%). These results signify the improvement in functional state and improved quality of life of the patient after getting ACDF done
Conclusion - One or two level anterior cervical discectomy with fusion with anterior plating for cervical spine disorders was  found to be a safe and successful technique that allows for a quick return to regular activities.