The anterior approach to arthrodesis of the cervical spine has become a widely accepted. However, anterior interbody fusion in the presence of the posterior instability may be complicated by the bone graft dislodgement, kyphotic deformity or
nonunion.
As an attempt to prevent this complications, anterior cervical plate after graft placement was introduced. Although, anterior cervical plates provide excellent fixation for the anterior column, potential risk for injury to the spinal cord, soft
tissues
or screw loosening leading to dysphagia has been reported.
Morscher, of Switzerland, had developed an anterior cervical spine locking plate(CSLP) system that attempts to prevent the migration and loosening f screws by using a cross-split screw head that can be locked into the plate. The secondary
advantage
of
this system is the elimination of the requried posterior cortex purchase.
The authors reviewed 42 patients, in whom the CLSP system was applied for the treatment of degenerative disease or trauma. With a mean followup of 18 months, all 42 patients went on to fusion. One patient had screws placed in the discal space,
hardware
faliure occured in two patients.
There was no iatrogenic injury to the spinal cord or esophagus.
In conclusion, the CSLP system provides a reliable fusion with minimal complications. It should be considered in multilevel anterior cervical arthrosis and cervical fractures.
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