Outcome comparison between the use of nano- artificial bone cage and autografts to treat two- level continuous cervical spondylosis

[Objective] To compare the short- and long- term outcomes of using the nano- artificial bone cage and autografts in anterior cervical discectomy for two- level continuous cervical spondylosis. [Methods] From January 2009 to April2012,the patients who underwent two- level contiguous anterior cervical discectomy and interbody fusion in our hospital were divided into 2 groups based on the fusion materials used. Group A included 32 cases with autologous fusion and group B included24 cases with nano- artificial bone cage fusion. The following were analyzed: time taken for surgery,bleeding volume,and JOA and NDI score before and after surgery. The data on fusion rate,cervical lordosis,cervical interspace height,and range of motion were recorded using lateral and flexion- extension cervical spine radiographs. The data were analyzed using the independent samples t- test. [Results] A significant difference was noted in the bleeding volume of groups A and B. The JOA and NDI scores improved in both groups after surgery. The JOA score was highest at 6 months after surgery. The fusion rates and the time taken for surgery showed no significant differences between the 2 groups. However,cervical lordosis and interspace height were better maintained in group B than in group A. [Conclusion] Autografts and nano- artificial bone cage fusion are both effective in the short and long term for two- level continuous anterior cervical discectomy; however,the latter is more effective in maintaining cervical lordosis and cervical interspace height.