2Michigan Spine and Brain Surgeons, Southfield, MI, USA DOI : 10.5137/1019-5149.JTN.9380-13.0 AIM: To evaluate the feasibility of this novel surgical approach for treatment of cervical discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis.
MATERIAL and METHODS: This is a report of two patients who underwent anterior cervical decompression for discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis (DVO) with cervical spine reconstruction with polymethylmethacrylate impregnated with antibiotics (AI-PMMA).
RESULTS: Both patients had successful procedures that were followed by 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics. Stabilization and eradication of infection was achieved with clinical and radiographic stabilization seen in both. Follow-up is greater than 18 months and both patients remain off antibiotics.
CONCLUSION: The described technique using AI-PMMA offers immediate structural stability and local delivery of high concentration of antibiotics. Use in two patients has demonstrated a cost effective, long-term biomechanically stable construct and infection control.
Keywords : Polymethylmethacrylate, Antibiotic, Cervical discitis, Cervical osteomyelitis, Anterior biomechanical device