CERVICAL PLATE
A cervical plate is a type of orthopedic implant used in cervical spine surgeries to stabilize and fuse the cervical vertebrae. Here's an overview of its specifications and uses:
Specification
- Material: Cervical plates are typically made from medical-grade titanium or titanium alloy, chosen for their biocompatibility, strength, and durability. Some plates may also be made from stainless steel or other materials, but titanium is most commonly used due to its compatibility with bone tissue.
- Design: Cervical plates have a flat or contoured profile designed to conform to the shape of the cervical spine. They typically feature multiple screw holes along the plate's length to accommodate screws for fixation to the vertebral bodies.
- Size: Cervical plates come in various sizes to accommodate different patient anatomies and surgical requirements. The size of the plate may be selected based on factors such as the number of levels being fused, the size of the vertebrae, and the extent of the surgical approach.
- Screw Holes: The cervical plate has multiple screw holes along its length, allowing for the attachment of screws to secure the plate to the vertebral bodies. The screw holes are strategically placed to provide optimal fixation and stability.
- Surface Texture: The surface of the cervical plate may be textured or coated to enhance grip and stability within the vertebral bodies. Textured surfaces or coatings can help prevent loosening or migration of the plate and screws, ensuring long-term stability of the spinal construct.
Uses
- Spinal Fusion Surgery: The primary use of cervical plates is in cervical spine fusion surgeries. They are used to stabilize the spine and promote fusion of the vertebral segments, particularly in cases of degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or cervical trauma.
- Correction of Spinal Deformities: Cervical plates may be used in the correction of spinal deformities such as cervical kyphosis or cervical scoliosis. They help to realign the cervical spine to a more anatomically correct position and provide stability during the fusion process.
- Trauma Surgery: Cervical plates can be employed in the treatment of traumatic injuries to the cervical spine, such as fractures or dislocations. They provide additional stability and support to the injured vertebral segments, aiding in fracture reduction and promoting healing.
- Revision Surgery: Cervical plates may be used in revision cervical spine surgeries to augment or replace existing instrumentation. They can provide additional stability and support in cases where previous instrumentation has failed or requires modification.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: In minimally invasive cervical spine surgeries, cervical plates with a low-profile design are used to minimize tissue disruption and facilitate less invasive approaches. They allow for stabilization of the spinal instrumentation system while preserving adjacent anatomical structures.
In summary, cervical plates are essential instruments in cervical spine surgeries, providing stability, alignment, and fusion across the cervical vertebrae. They are utilized by trained spinal surgeons following proper surgical techniques and patient-specific considerations to achieve successful fusion and stabilization of the cervical spine.