replace the disc. Instead of directly fusing the bones together, a prosthetic piece is implanted between the vertebral bodies. The goal here is to provide a stabilizing structure to reduce the pressure of the vertebrae fusing directly together. There have been many different types of cage designs since its initial introduction a few years ago. Some of the different cages are cylindrical in shape, requiring to be screwed into place, while others are cuboid in shape requiring to be placed in the disc space. Studies were done to measure the flexibility and mobility allowed by the inter body devices. The evidence showed that the most effective fusion device is the Stryker cage, which is a ridged bullet shaped polyethetetherketone implant. It had the greatest effect on stabilization and mobility after undergoing many cyclic loading tests, and was concluded as the most effective interbody fusion cage(Kettler et Al). Fusion surgeries are most often performed posteriorly, but they can also be performed anteriorly as well. Some surgeons are dissatisfied with the long term results of the posterior procedure and favor an anterior operation. The anterior approach shows better results with result to restoring the anterior vertebral column to its normal height, thus creating more foraminal space, and restoring sagital alignment. The negative side of the anterior surgery is the risk of complications of the invasive surgery. The approach is made by a transabdominal incision and is very complicated as result of the many problems that can occur. Any number of problems such as damage to the left iliarlumbar vein can occur, and could possibly produce fatal results. As a result, this procedure is not frequently performed, and requires highly prepared surgeons. Despite the many complications, there have been no deaths associated with the anterior approach, and there is a ninety six percent chance of fusion rate in the patients(Samud...
