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European Spine Journal

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01-02-2012 | Original Article

Anterior screw fixation of type IIB odontoid fractures in octogenarians

Authors: P. L. Hénaux, F. Cueff, S. Diabira, L. Riffaud, A. Hamlat, G. Brassier, X. Morandi

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 2/2012

Abstract

Purpose

Type IIB odontoid fractures (OF) in elderly patients are life-threatening conditions. Optimal treatment of these fractures is still controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and radiological outcome of surgically treated type IIB OF by anterior screw fixation in octogenarians.

Methods

Eleven octogenarians with type IIB OF were operated using anterior screw fixation. Follow-up assessment included operative mortality and morbidity rates, long-term functional outcome and fracture union and stability.

Results

There was neither operative mortality nor morbidity. Five patients had excellent clinical outcome, two good outcome, one fair and three poor. Two patients died of unrelated causes 2 months after surgery. Radiographs showed stable bone union in four patients and stable fibrous union in five patients.

Conclusions

Given the results in this short series, we suggest that anterior screw fixation of Type IIB OF may be offered as primary treatment in octogenarians.

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Title: Anterior screw fixation of type IIB odontoid fractures in octogenarians
Authors: P. L. Hénaux
F. Cueff
S. Diabira
L. Riffaud
A. Hamlat
G. Brassier
X. Morandi
Publication date: 01-02-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue 2/2012
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-011-2044-7

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Anterior screw fixation of type IIB odontoid fractures in octogenarians

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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