Anterior Cervical Decompression And Fusion: Does The Addition Of A Plate Reduce Axial Neck Pain In The Short Term?

Objectives: The aim of the current study is to examine the hypothesis that the inclusion of a plate when performing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) results in a more initial stable motion segment in the early postoperative period and therefore a reduction in axial neck pain. Summary of Background Data: ACDF is a commonly performed procedure with much controversy surrounding the role of anterior cervical locking plates. There is anecdotal evidence that the use of a locking plate reduces axial neck pain in the shortterm postoperative period, however this question has not been examined in the literature. Methods: Over a 42-month period, 54 patients were entered into a prospective study to examine postoperative axial neck pain scores following ACDF, with and without a plate. Results: There is a minor benefit awarded to those patients who have received a plate in terms of reduced postoperative axial neck pain on the day 7, 1 month and 3 month time periods. However there is a statistical difference only at the day 7 mark (p=0.029). Conclusions: The data does not provide strong evidence that the addition of an anterior locking plate reduces significant axial neck pain in the short-term postoperative period.