The aim of this study was to use diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to investigate changes in diffusion metrics in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) up to five years after decompressive surgery. We correlated these changes with clinical outcomes as scored by the Modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) method, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). We used multi-shot, high-resolution, diffusion tensor imaging (ms-DTI) in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) to investigate the change in diffusion metrics and clinical outcomes up to five years after anterior cervical interbody discectomy and fusion (ACDF). High signal intensity was identified on T2-weighted imaging, along with DTI metrics such as fractional anisotropy (FA). MJOA, NDI, and VAS scores were also collected and compared at each follow-up point. Spearman correlations identified correspondence between FA and clinical outcome scores.Aims
Methods
In a retrospective cohort study we compared the
clinical outcome and complications, including dysphagia, following
anterior cervical fusion for the treatment of cervical spondylosis
using either a zero-profile (Zero-P; Synthes) implant or an anterior
cervical plate and cage. A total of 83 patients underwent fusion
using a Zero-P and 107 patients underwent fusion using a plate and
cage. The mean follow-up was 18.6 months ( When compared with the traditional anterior cervical plate and
cage, the Zero-P implant is a safe and convenient procedure giving
good results in patients with symptomatic cervical spondylosis with
a reduced incidence of dysphagia post-operatively. Cite this article:
