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Acta Neurochirurgica

Published in:

01-07-2011 | Clinical Article

Accuracy of freehand fluoroscopy-guided placement of C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic screws in atlanto-axial instability

Authors: Enrico Tessitore, Andrea Bartoli, Karl Schaller, Michael Payer

Published in: Acta Neurochirurgica | Issue 7/2011

Abstract

Background

The C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic stabilization, as introduced by Goel and Laheri and by Harms and Melcher, is a well-known fixation technique. We present the clinical and radiographic results with freehand fluoroscopy guided C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic fixation in a consecutive series of 28 patients, evaluating the accuracy of screw placement.

Methods

Twenty-eight consecutive patients suffering from post-traumatic and other C1-C2 instability were operated on between 2001 and 2010. Indications for surgery were: trauma (n = 21 cases), os odontoideum (n = 1), cranio-verterbal malformation (n = 1), and arthritis (n = 3) and idiopathic instability (n = 2). C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic screws were placed according to the usual anatomical landmarks with lateral fluoroscopy guidance. All patients underwent a postoperative CT scan. The extent of cortical lateral or medial breach was determined and classified as follows: no breach (grade A), 0–2 mm (grade B), 2–4 mm (grade C), 4–6 mm (grade D), more than 6 mm (grade E). Grade A and B screws were considered well positioned.

Results

A total of 56 C1 lateral mass and 55 C2 isthmic screws were placed. Accuracy of screw placement was as follows: 107 grade A (96.4%), four grade B (3.6%), and no grade C, D or E. Clinical and radiological follow-up showed improvement in symptoms (mainly pain) and stability of the implants at the end of the follow-up.

Conclusions

Freehand fluoroscopy-guided insertion of C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic screws can be safely and effectively performed.

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Title: Accuracy of freehand fluoroscopy-guided placement of C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic screws in atlanto-axial instability
Authors: Enrico Tessitore
Andrea Bartoli
Karl Schaller
Michael Payer
Publication date: 01-07-2011
Publisher: Springer Vienna
Published in: Acta Neurochirurgica / Issue 7/2011
Print ISSN: 0001-6268
Electronic ISSN: 0942-0940
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00701-011-1039-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Accuracy of freehand fluoroscopy-guided placement of C1 lateral mass and C2 isthmic screws in atlanto-axial instability

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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