In: Anatomy and Physiology
The orthopaedic surgeon needs to carry out surgery on
a patient which involves the
removal of a failed intervertebral disc. Compare a spinal cage with
an intervertebral
implant and provide a recommendation for the surgeon as to which
one should be
inserted in to the patient.
A spinal cage is a cylindrical or square shaped device, usually threaded. It is used to treat various low back problems and for people who require spinal fusion surgery to treat degenerative disc diseases. It has a low complication rate and has been found to be effective in treating spinal problems. It helps to restore correct spinal alignment.
Intervertebral disc is a cartilagenous structure between two adjacent vertebrae in the vertebral column. Its main function is to provide flexibility to the backbone and prevent friction between vertebrae. Problems in the intervertebral disc are corrected by artificial disc implants. The procedure involves removing the painful disc and inserting an artificial disc in its place. It helps to relieve pain while maintaining the movement of the backbone. The problem with disc replacement is its success rate and the duration that it will last.
On the whole, spinal cage is a sturdier and more efficient way of treating back problems and since, in the above case, artificial intervertebral disc replacement has failed, it will be a much better option to use the spinal cage.