Comparison of Fusion Rate Between Autogenous Tricortical Iliac Crest Bone Graft and Hydroxyapatite Block Graft in Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Surgery

Objective: To compare the fusion rate between autogenous tricortical iliac crest bone graft and hydroxyapatite block graft in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery. Methodology: Retrospective review of cases that underwent ACDF surgery between 2005 and 2008. They were divided into two groups based on the graft material used. Assessment of fusion at 6 months post-surgery was carried out based on the static lateral cervical radiograph. Results: 32 cases were reviewed; 16 in each arm. There were 29 discectomies performed in the hydroxyapatite group as compared to 22 in the iliac crest group. 18 levels in the hydrxyapatite group showed radiological fusion while in the iliac crest group there were 21 levels fused. Seven patients had donor site pain. Conclusion: The fusion rate for autogenous tricortical iliac crest bone graft in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery was 95%, a more superior fusion rate than that of hydroxyapatite block graft which was 62.1%.