Advantages and limitations of zero-profile spacers in the treatment of cervical spinal cord injury without fracture or dislocation: a 5-year retrospective analysis

In the long-term follow-up of ACDF for CSCIWFD, zero-profile spacers demonstrated comparable clinical outcomes to plate-cage constructs. While offering advantages like shorter surgical time, reduced intraoperative blood loss, and a lower incidence of ASD, zero-profile spacers had significantly greater loss of correction for IH and cervical lordosis. Surgeons must carefully weigh these risks and benefits when selecting the optimal treatment for CSCIWFD.