This retrospective study aimed to identify predictive prognostic factors for treatment outcomes in patients with cervical degenerative disc disease (CDDD). The study analyzed data from 80 patients who underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with the Bagby and Kuslich (BAK/C) technique. Patients were stratified into two groups based on clinical outcomes at a 3-year follow-up, and logistic regression was used to determine which factors, such as age and bone mineral density, were independent predictors of poor recovery.
Cervical degenerative disc disease (CDDD) is a prevalent condition causing significant pain and neurological dysfunction. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) combined with the Bagby and Kuslich (BAK/C) interbody fusion technique is an established surgical treatment, but patient outcomes vary. This study was designed to address a gap in the literature by retrospectively analyzing both surgical and patient-related variables over a 3-year follow-up period to understand the factors influencing treatment success. A cohort of 80 patients treated between January and December 2020 was identified. Patients were divided into a "favorable outcome" group and a "poor outcome" group based on post-operative pain relief and neurological improvement (JOA score). The study's primary objective was to use multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors (e.g., age, bone mineral density, disease severity, postoperative complications) associated with poor outcomes. The findings aim to provide evidence-based insights to help optimize patient selection and treatment strategies for ACDF with BAK/C fusion.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
80
The surgical intervention consisted of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). Patients were placed under general anesthesia in a supine position with slight neck extension. A standard right anterior cervical approach was utilized to expose the affected vertebral levels. Following the removal of the degenerated intervertebral disc and osteophytes, the interbody space was prepared. A Bagby and Kuslich (BAK/C) interbody fusion cage, filled with autogenous bone fragments, was implanted to facilitate fusion. In cases of multi-level surgery, an anterior cervical plate was selectively applied for enhanced stability based on intraoperative assessment. Postoperatively, all patients were required to wear a Philadelphia hard neck brace for a period of 2 months.
The Third Hospital of Shijiazhuang
Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
Identification of Independent Risk Factors for Poor Surgical Outcomes
To identify predictors of poor treatment outcome using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The analysis evaluated variables including age, bone mineral density, baseline disease severity (initial JOA score), postoperative complications, and postoperative care. The outcome was being classified into the "Poor Outcome Group".
Time frame: Assessed based on data collected up to the 3-year final follow-up
Change in Neurological Function
Assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring system, which ranges from 0 (severe impairment) to 17 (normal function).
Time frame: Baseline (preoperative), 1 week postoperative, 6 months postoperative, and 3-year final follow-up
Radiological Fusion Rate
Assessed via X-ray and CT scans. Firm fusion was defined as segmental motion \<2 degrees on extension-flexion radiographs and bridging trabecular bone across ≥50% of the graft-host interface. The rate of pseudoarthrosis (non-fusion) was reported as a key radiological outcome.
Time frame: Assessed at 6 months and at the 3-year final follow-up
Change in Intervertebral Height
Measured from lateral X-ray images. The change was calculated as the difference between the immediate postoperative height and the height at the final follow-up.
Time frame: 1 week postoperative and 3-year final follow-up
Incidence of Postoperative Complications
Number and type of adverse events recorded, including C5 palsy and pseudoarthrosis, categorized as intraoperative, early postoperative (\<30 days), or late postoperative (\>30 days).
Time frame: Assessed throughout the 3-year follow-up period
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Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
Measured preoperatively using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine and reported as a T-score to assess bone quality.
Time frame: Baseline (Preoperative)