Migration of Retrieved Ball-and-Socket Cervical Disc Replacement

Description

The presentation discusses a study on the retrieval analysis of PCM cervical devices, specifically focusing on the migration issues associated with these ball and socket implants. The speaker begins by highlighting the lack of large cohort retrieval analyses in existing literature for PCM devices, which have been taken off the market despite their similar design features to currently available devices. A total of 37 PCM devices were received for post-market surveillance, with 28 being analyzed for functional issues. Most were found to have been implanted at cervical location c5-c6, with the majority being removed due to migration. Radiographic assessments revealed patterns of inferior migration in a significant number of devices. The study utilized non-destructive analysis methods including microscopy and measurement of surface roughness using precision machines. Findings indicated a focalized deviation in the wear map of migrated devices, suggesting increased mechanical strain possibly due to the design features like a large ball diameter. The speaker emphasizes that these results can inform future designs of cervical devices to prevent similar issues, aiming to improve overall patient outcomes.

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