This study is a randomized, prospective, multicenter clinical trial comparing rigid (PEEK) interbody fusion device with non-rigid (Titanium Alloy, Z-Brace, Baui Biotech) interbody fusion device in ACDF surgery at 11 clinical sites. ACDF was performed with stand-alone interbody fusion device and artificial bone graft (hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate). Patients have 1-level or 2-level cervical degenerative disc disease approved for ACDF surgery by National Health Insurance, which is the blind, third-party, administrative approved and insurance reimbursement for surgical indication. Total 180 patients were enrolled, and 180 patients were randomized into either investigational device (non-rigid) group or the control (rigid) group in a 2:1 ratio. After confirming a patient's eligibility and having the patient sign an informed consent form, the site investigator or study coordinator call the coordinator at National Taiwan University Hospital for the randomization. Each patient will be then assigned to 1 of the treatment group according to a randomized schedule. Patient were evaluated preoperatively, one month postoperatively, and 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months postoperatively. Measured outcomes included overall success, Neck Disability Index (NDI), VAS neck and arm pain, adjacent range of motion, patient satisfaction, anxiety score, SF-12 MCS/PCS, major complications, subsequent surgery rate, and subsidence and fusion rate on radiological examinations. The primary endpoint was a FDA composite definition of success comprising clinical improvement and absence of major complications and secondary surgery events.
Rigid interbody fusion device in bulk configuration has been widely used in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery. It is a randomized, prospective, multicenter clinical study to compare rigid and non-rigid fusion device in ACDF for cervical degenerative disc disease.