cage migration
Postoperative displacement of an interbody cage from its intended position, potentially causing complications.
Full Definition
A postoperative complication involving the movement or displacement of an interbody fusion cage from its intended position within the disc space. Migration can occur in various directions including anterior expulsion into the abdomen or pelvis, posterior migration into the spinal canal causing neural compression, or superior/inferior migration into adjacent vertebral bodies. Risk factors include inadequate endplate preparation, oversized cages, insufficient posterior support, and premature loading. Cage migration may result in loss of disc height, neural compression, vascular injury, or fusion failure requiring revision surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Specify direction of migration (anterior, posterior, superior, inferior) in documentation.
In Context
- "CT scan revealed anterior cage migration requiring urgent revision surgery." — complication report
- "Prevention of cage migration includes proper sizing and adequate posterior instrumentation." — surgical technique guide