Preliminary experience of titanium mesh cages for pathological fracture of middle and lower cervical vertebrae

The advantages and disadvantages of titanium mesh cages (TMCs) assisted by anterior cervical plates (ACPs) for interbody fusion following cervical corpectomy were investigated. Between January 2002 and September 2006, 17 patients with cervical radiculomyelopathy caused by metastasis-induced pathologic fractures were selected for anterior corpectomy. TMCs were inserted into the post-corpectomy defect and stabilized by placement of ACPs filled with Triosite. Post-operative plain X-ray films indicated maintenance of spinal stability. No ceramic, donor site or surgery-related complications were observed. True trabeculation was observed in axial and reconstructive CT scans in all surviving patients one year after surgery. Neurological recovery, pain control, and good quality of life were achieved. Short hospital stays, minimal blood loss, short operation times and brief periods of bed confinement were also observed. We conclude that a TMC assisted by an ACP is safe and effective for interbody fusion following cervical corpectomy for pathological fractures resulting from cervical vertebral metastases.