I had to register, but it was worth it. Opened my eyes to something I had not considered. If you look closely at the Radio Graphs (Not the MRI), from a Laymans perspective the PCM looks very impressive as if it "fits" the space better than the others. Unfortunately the MRI's are poor with the PCM.
Interesting that they chose the Prestige LP and not Prestige ST. Any idea (I'll look deeper) if or when the LP may get FDA Approval?
Another Good Medscape article with more devices listed.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/489860_5
The Prestige LP now looks like the Frontrunner in my opinon, whereas before the article I was pretty high on the ProDisc-C
When was the PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc System developed?
The PRESTIGE® LP Disc was designed in 2004. The device is based on several years of clinical expertise dating back to the Bristol/Cummins disc, which was first implanted in Bristol, UK in 1991.
What is a PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc made of?
The PRESTIGE® LP Disc is a titanium ceramic composite device with two articulating components (ball on top & trough on the bottom) that are attached to the vertebral bodies. This unique ball and trough design provides for replication of normal physiological motion. Dual stabilization rails and a plasma spray coating on each component help encourage bony in-growth and long-term stability. The PRESTIGE® LP Disc is available in a variety of sizes to allow the surgeon to closely match the patient's anatomy.
Are the materials safe?
Device biocompatibility is assured through use of materials that have an established record of success in long-term implantation and documented testing in accordance with ISO 10993 guidelines. All metallic components conform to American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) specifications and have a long history of successful application in total joint reconstructive devices.
How long will a PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc last?
Many factors contribute to the longevity of an artificial disc prosthesis. However, the PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc has undergone significant testing to verify adequate durability of the prosthesis.
Source:
http://www.neurocirugia.com/instrume...y070304-102958
WHEN NOT TO HAVE ADR
There is an excellent Adobe PDF file on this page:
http://www.spinalneurosurgery.com/Ce...ial%20Disc.htm
Just click on the link in read near the bottom of the page. More things I had not considered.