Background: Arthrodesis is considered to be the reference treatment for degenerative disc disease (DDD), if the symptoms are refractory to conservative management. The drawback of arthrodesis is, besides a percentage of non-union, the reduced mobility that might generate an increased load and risk for degeneration of the adjacent levels. Total disc replacement (TDR) implants may overcome this problem. The long-term clinical effect and radiographic evaluation of motion preservation after implantation, however, have been subject to several nonconclusive studies. This study evaluated the long-term clinical and radiographic results and the safety of TDR with the Maverick prosthesis for surgical treatment of monosegmental DDD.
Methods: TDR was performed in 50 consecutive patients with monosegmental DDD using the Maverick device. Patients were followed prospectively for disability, quality of life, pain intensity and frequency, as well as working status and return to sports, during 48 months. Motion preservation was assessed on neutral and dynamic radiographs at 48 months.
Results: The disability, pain intensity and frequency, and quality of life improved significantly at the 6-week follow-up, which was maintained over the full 48 months following Maverick implantation. Preoperatively, 80% of the patients stopped working and 86% halted sports activities. Four years after surgery, 85% of patients were again working and 79% took up their normal sports activities. Radiographic assessment showed that motion at the index level is maintained 48 months after TDR. No major complications were encountered.
Conclusion: In this study, TDR with the Maverick prosthesis at one lumbar segment reduced pain and disability and improved quality of life as well as the general condition. Motion was preserved at the operated level, 48 months after surgery. The long-term effect on adjacent levels needs further follow-up.
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