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Novel Use of Titanium Cages for Spine Reconstruction Surgery

Studies show good results when using special cages to fuse two or more vertebrae in the spine. These cages are barrel-shaped and fit between the vertebral bones. They hold the bones apart and keep the spine stable. They also resist the compressive load through the spine. Bone chips are placed inside the cage to form a bone graft that "grows into" the spine.

This treatment method is now being tested with other problems. This study looks at the use of titanium mesh cages after bone is removed because of fracture, infection, or tumors. X-rays are used to see how stable the implants are after bone removal and surgery to reconstruct the problem area of the spine.

Half the patients in this study had a vertebral fracture. One-third had surgery after the spine collapsed from trauma. The rest had a tumor or spinal infection. All patients had one level removed and replaced with a cage packed with bone. In some cases the doctor also used a metal plate or screws to help hold everything in place.

The authors report that cages used for problems other than disc-related fusion had good results. The spine was held stable without further deformity. They conclude that cages can be used to reconstruct the spine after fracture, tumors, infection, and other trauma.

References: Peter A. Robertson, MD, FRACS, et al. Radiologic Stability of Titanium Mesh Cages for Anterior Spinal Reconstruction Following Thoracolumbar Corpectomy. In Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques. February 2004. Vol. 17. No. 1. Pp. 44-52.

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