Effect of free radical scavenger on anterior decompression for cervical spondylotic myelopathy

Objective:To observe the therapeutic effect of free radical scavenger(edaravone) on anterior decompression for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.Method:Anterior decompression for cervical spondylotic myelopathy in 58 cases were assigned into two groups.Edaravone group,30 cases,with free radical scavenger therapy;control group,28 cases,without free radical scavenger therapy.Patients received scores based on the Japanese Orthopaedic Association(JOA) functional scales preoperatively and postoperatively.Concentration of free radical in cerebrospinal fluid was monitored by electron spin resonance(ESR).Result:Concentration of free radical in cerebrospinal fluid was not significantly different between two groups before operation(P0.05),but the concentration in edaravone group was significantly decreased in comparison with that of control group 30min after decompression(P0.05).There were no differences in JOA scores between two groups before operation,1 days and 3 months after operation(P0.05).The JOA score was better in edaravone group 7 days after operation(P0.05).Less patients with relapse in edaravone group(P0.05).Conclusion:Free radical scavenger edaravone can inhabit free radical formation in spinal cord tissue and reduce postoperative relapse and improve short term prognosis in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.