An adjustable and stable assistant-free anterior cervical retractor system for microscopy- assisted anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Abstract

Background Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a standardized surgical strategy for treating cervical spondylopathy. This study aimed to introduce a newly developed retractor system and analyze its feasibility and safety in microscopy-assisted ACDF. Methods A newly developed retractor system was used in microscopy-assisted ACDF to treat patients with cervical spondylopathy. Demographic data and pre-, peri-, and postoperative clinical and imaging data were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Results A total of 48 patients were included in this study. Postoperative imaging data indicated sufficient decompression and good alignment. The Visual Analog Scale and Neck Disability Index score decreased preoperatively from 5.43 ± 1.12 and 29.77 ± 6.06 to 2.60 ± 0.78 and 11.75 ± 3.26 after surgery. The Japanese Orthopedic Association score increased preoperatively from 7.93 ± 1.37 to 12.22 ± 1.71 postoperatively. The C2–7 Cobb angles increased from 10.37 ± 6.79 to 14.58 ± 6.10 degrees after the procedure. No clinical or imaging-related complications were observed. Conclusion The newly developed retractor system showed good feasibility and safety for microscopy-assisted ACDF surgery, providing an option for clinical application.