A novel technique to practice using a high-speed burr for spinal anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

BACKGROUND: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion has been a successful procedure in terms of patient satisfaction in the management of cervical myelopathy and radiculopathy. The procedure involves an anterior approach to the cervical vertebral column and decompression of the neural elements. AIM: A key part of the procedure is the removal of the posterior osteophyte. This is usually performed using a high-speed burr. In inexperienced hands, this part of the procedure can be a challenging one. MATERIALS: Egg, egg cup, zinc oxide tape and high-speed burr. CONCLUSION: We describe a simple and cost effective method of practicing this manoeuver, enabling the trainee to gain sufficient confidence in handling the tool around delicate tissues.