NEWS & INFO
The Current Status, Indications and Contraindications for Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement in Singapore
The Society wishes to clarify several points raised in a recent Channel News Asia article regarding cervical artificial disc replacement in Singapore.
The Current Status, Indications and Contraindications for Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement in Singapore
Clarification on points raised in Channel News Asia (CNA) article.
> Click here for article [PDF]
Following a recent CNA article on Singapore doctors developing a new spinal surgery technique dated 30th November 2022, a number of our members have expressed significant concerns regarding several inaccuracies in the article and the misleading nature of the article for the general public.
We would like to make the following points of clarification:
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Artificial Spinal Disc Surgery is not new to Singapore. It was first performed in Singapore in 2002 and is currently performed in all hospitals in Singapore;
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Whilst Cervical Fusion Surgery is still considered to be the gold standard, Artificial Disc Surgery is performed commonly in appropriately selected patients with the potential benefit or maintaining mobility and reducing stress on other segments of the spine;
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Artificial Disc Surgery may not be less invasive or less painful than Fusion Surgery;
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In the US Artificial Disc Surgery is indicated for 1-2 levels disc pathologies with radiculopathy or myelopathy symptoms and is contraindicated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patients with osteoporosis or severe joint degeneration which is commonly seen in older patients. Any use in such patients is considered off label and is not supported by the available literature.
We would recommend that patients discuss their conditions with their individual physicians if they have any concerns or need further clarifications.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
January 2023
Clarification on points raised on NTFGH media release
Following the media release on Endoscopic Spine Surgery in NTFGH dated 13/8/2020, there was consternation amongst the SSS members with regards to the accuracy and veracity of statements made during the event leading to potential misinformation of the general public.
Clarification has been sought from the parties responsible and the following points have been made in apology.
Clarification on points raised on NTFGH media release
Following the media release on Endoscopic Spine Surgery in NTFGH dated 13/8/2020, there was consternation amongst the SSS members with regards to the accuracy and veracity of statements made during the event leading to potential misinformation of the general public.
Clarification has been sought from the parties responsible and the following points have been made in apology.
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Endoscopic Spine Surgery is not a pioneering technique in Singapore and has been performed since the last decade.
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Endoscopic Spine Surgery is suitable for only a select group of patients with lumbar discal or regenerative pathology.
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Endoscopic discectomy or decompression has not been proven to be superior to conventional open or MIS surgery.
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Same day Spine Surgery is not the exclusive domain of Endoscopic Spine Surgery.
We would like to take this opportunity to reiterate the importance of being professional and judicious when engaging with the media on spine surgical techniques.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
September 2020
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