Abstract
Study design:
A case report to describe the minimally invasive technique of treating C1-type II odontoid combination fractures.
Objective:
To introduce a new, minimally invasive technique of triple anterior screw fixation for acute combination atlas–axis fractures.
Summary of background data:
Management for C1-type II odontoid combination fractures includes traction, immobilization and posterior fusion with and without instrumentation and anterior odontoid screw fixation. The combination of odontoid and bilateral transarticular C1–C2 anterior screw fixation is a recent addition in treating C1-type II odontoid fractures.
Methods:
A case of combination atlas-type II odontoid fracture occurred in a 39-year-old man. Imaging examinations showed a fracture of the unilateral anterior and posterior arch of C1 associated with type II odontoid fracture and with significant prevertebral soft tissue edema. Treatment consisted of odontoid and bilateral C1–C2 transarticular screw fixation through bilateral anterior small incisions.
Results:
The patient was mobilized early postoperatively with a hard cervical collar and discharged 4 days later. On 2-year follow-up, he presented no cervical complaints and only mild reduction in neck rotation.
Conclusion:
In case of C1-type II odontoid fracture, the triple anterior screw fixation can be taken into consideration as an alternative because of its superiority of minimal invasion, stability and safety.
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Dean, Q., Jiefu, S., Jie, W. et al. Minimally invasive technique of triple anterior screw fixation for an acute combination atlas–axis fracture: case report and literature review. Spinal Cord 48, 174–177 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.2009.108
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.2009.108
