What is a corrective spondylodesis?
A corrective spondylodesis is a surgical procedure that treats curvatures and rotations of the spine. Corrective spondylodesis is primarily used to treat scoliosis. During surgery, the vertebral bodies are brought into the best possible position and this position is mechanically fixed with screws and metal plates.
The aim of a corrective spondylodesis is to straighten the curved spine in order to achieve a better posture for the patient and to relieve the symptoms. There are various surgical techniques with which a corrective spondylodesis can be performed. In principle, a distinction is made between dorsal and ventral procedures, in which the spinal column is made accessible either via the back or from the front.
The decision as to which technique is used depends primarily on the clinical picture. Corrective spondylodesis is a difficult procedure that is associated with various risks and complications. The rotation and straightening of the spine can damage blood vessels and nerves in the back. In some cases, the spine is not sufficiently stiffened after the operation because the vertebrae do not grow together and ossify properly. Patients must then undergo surgery again.
What is the cage in spondylodesis?
Frequently, one or more intervertebral discs must be completely removed as part of a spondylodesis. The missing discs are replaced by so-called cages. These are small cages made of metal (usually titanium), plastic (carbon, PEEK) or ceramic, which are inserted between the vertebral bodies and serve as spacers.
Cages are considered to be well tolerated. After insertion, the small cages are fixed between the vertebral bodies with screws and plates. The shape and thickness of the cages is based on the natural intervertebral discs.
The implants are important to support the fusion of the fixed vertebral bodies and to maintain the anatomically correct curvature of the spine. In the course of the healing process, the inserted implant should grow together with the surrounding vertebrae and further stiffen the spine in this section. To promote ossification, the surgeon may insert small bone fragments created during surgery into the operated vertebral section in addition to the cages.
