Correction of spinal instability and recovery of neurologic loss following cervical vertebral body replacement. A case report.

While replacement of cervical vertebral bodies may be required when they are compromised by infection, tumor, or injury, or when they impinge on the neural elements, this procedure does not add immediate stability and may cause additional problems. In this case, displacement of a large fibular graft into the spinal canal appeared to cause additional spinal cord and nerve root injury. Despite a long delay, decompression and firmly fitted and wired anterior and posterior grafts seemed to enhance the neurologic recovery and permitted rapid mobilization. The diagnostic value of computerized tomography is also demonstrated.