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Cloney MB, Texakalidis P, Roumeliotis AG, Thirunavu V, Shlobin NA, Swong K, El Tecle N, Dahdaleh NS. The demographic, clinical, and management differences between traumatic dens fracture patients with and without simultaneous atlas fractures. JOURNAL OF CRANIOVERTEBRAL JUNCTION AND SPINE 2024; 15:21-29. [PMID: 38644924 PMCID: PMC11029115 DOI: 10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_147_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Atlas fractures often accompany traumatic dens fractures, but existing literature on the management of simultaneous atlantoaxial fractures is limited. Methods We examined all patients with traumatic dens fractures at our institution between 2008 and 2018. We used multivariable logistic regression and ordinal logistic regression to identify factors independently associated with presentation with a simultaneous atlas fracture, as well myelopathy severity, fracture nonunion, and selection for surgery. Results Two hundred and eighty-two patients with traumatic dens fractures without subaxial fractures were identified, including 65 (22.8%) with simultaneous atlas fractures. The distribution of injury mechanisms differed between groups (χ2 P = 0.0360). On multivariable logistic regression, dens nonunion was positively associated with type II fractures (odds ratio [OR] = 2.00, P = 0.038) and negatively associated with having surgery (OR = 0.52, P = 0.049), but not with having a C1 fracture (P = 0.3673). Worse myelopathy severity on presentation was associated with having a severe injury severity score (OR = 102.3, P < 0.001) and older age (OR = 1.28, P = 0.002), but not with having an atlas fracture (P = 0.2446). Having a simultaneous atlas fracture was associated with older age (OR = 1.29, P = 0.024) and dens fracture angulation (OR = 2.62, P = 0.004). Among patients who underwent surgery, C1/C2 posterior fusion was the most common procedure, and having a simultaneous atlas fracture was associated with selection for occipitocervical fusion (OCF) (OR = 14.35, P = 0.010). Conclusions Among patients with traumatic dens, patients who have simultaneous atlas fractures are a distinct subpopulation with respect to age, mechanism of injury, fracture morphology, and management. Traumatic dens fractures with simultaneous atlas fractures are independently associated with selection for OCF rather than posterior cervical fusion alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Brendan Cloney
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pavlos Texakalidis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anastasios G. Roumeliotis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vineeth Thirunavu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nathan A. Shlobin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kevin Swong
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Najib El Tecle
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nader S. Dahdaleh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Cloney MB, Texakalidis P, Roumeliotis AG, Tecle NE, Dahdaleh NS. Atlas fractures with and without simultaneous dens fractures differ with respect to clinical, demographic, and management characteristics. JOURNAL OF CRANIOVERTEBRAL JUNCTION AND SPINE 2023; 14:418-425. [PMID: 38268695 PMCID: PMC10805171 DOI: 10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_126_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with simultaneous fractures of the atlas and dens have traditionally been managed according to the dens fracture's morphology, but data supporting this practice are limited. Methods We retrospectively examined all patients with traumatic atlas fractures at our institution between 2008 and 2016. We used multivariable regression and propensity score matching to compare the presentation, management, and outcomes of patients with isolated atlas fractures to patients with simultaneous atlas-dens fractures. Results Ninety-nine patients were identified. Patients with isolated atlas fractures were younger (61 ± 22 vs. 77 ± 14, P = 0.0003), had lower median Charlson Comorbidity Index (3 vs. 5, P = 0.0005), had better presenting Nurick myelopathy scores (0 vs. 3, P < 0.0001), and had different mechanisms of injury (P = 0.0011). Multivariable regression showed that having a simultaneous atlas-dens fracture was independently associated with older age (odds ratio [OR] =1.59 [1.22, 2.07], P = 0.001), worse presenting myelopathy (OR = 3.10 [2.04, 4.16], P < 0.001), and selection for surgery (OR = 4.91 [1.10, 21.97], P = 0.037). Propensity score matching yielded balanced populations (Rubin's B = 23.3, Rubin's R = 1.96) and showed that the risk of atlas fracture nonunion was no different among isolated atlas fractures compared to simultaneous atlas-dens fractures (P = 0.304). Age was the only variable independently associated with atlas fracture nonunion (OR = 2.39 [1.15, 5.00], P = 0.020), having a simultaneous atlas-dens fracture was not significant (P = 0.2829). Conclusions Among patients with atlas fractures, simultaneous fractures of the dens occur in older patients and confer an increased risk of myelopathy and requiring surgical stabilization. Controlling for confounders, the risk of atlas fracture nonunion is equivalent for isolated atlas fractures versus simultaneous atlas-dens fractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Brendan Cloney
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pavlos Texakalidis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anastasios G Roumeliotis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Najib El Tecle
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nader S. Dahdaleh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Di Francesco ME, Magunia H, Örgel A, Tatagiba M, Radwan M, Adib SD. Case report: Interdisciplinary treatment of complex C1/C2 fractures in a patient with concomitant three-vessel coronary artery disease requiring bypass surgery. Front Surg 2023; 10:1123947. [PMID: 37260599 PMCID: PMC10228685 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2023.1123947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Acute myocardial infarction (MI) frequently leads to consciousness disturbance following hemodynamic collapse. Therefore, MI can occur together with upper cervical spine trauma. Herein, we report the successful treatment of complex C1/C2 fractures in a patient with concomitant three-vessel coronary artery disease (CAD). Case presentation A 70-year-old patient presented in our emergency outpatient clinic after a hemodynamic collapse without neurological deficits or heart-related complaints. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the cervical spine revealed a dislocated odontoid fracture Anderson and D'Alonzo type II and an unstable Gehweiler type III injury (Jefferson's fracture). An intradiploic arachnoid cyst in the posterior wall of the posterior fossa was a coincident radiological finding. Furthermore, coronary angiography confirmed three-vessel CAD with high-grade coronary artery stenosis. Indication for upper cervical spine surgery and bypass surgery was given. An interdisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, cardiothoracic surgeons and anesthesiologists evaluated the patient's case to develop the most suitable therapy concept and alternative strategies. Finally, in first step, C1-C2 fusion was performed by Harms technique under general anesthesia with x-ray guidance, spinal neuronavigation, Doppler ultrasound and cardiopulmonary monitoring. Cardiothoracic surgeons were on standby. One month later bypass surgery was performed uneventfully. Follow-up CT scan of cervical spine revealed intraosseous screw positioning and beginning fusion of the fractures. The patient did not develop neurological deficits and recovered completely from both surgeries. Conclusions Treating complex C1/C2 fractures with concomitant severe CAD requiring treatment is challenging and carries a high risk of complications. To our knowledge, the literature does not provide any guidelines regarding therapy of this constellation. To receive upper cervical spine stability and to prevent both, spinal cord injury and cardiovascular complications, an individual approach is required. Interdisciplinary cooperation to determine optimal therapeutic algorithms is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - H. Magunia
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - A. Örgel
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - M. Tatagiba
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - M. Radwan
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - S. D. Adib
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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Zou X, Yang H, Deng C, Fu S, Chen J, Ma R, Ma X, Xia H. The use of a novel reduction plate in transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis for unstable atlas fractures. Front Surg 2023; 10:1072894. [PMID: 37206357 PMCID: PMC10188962 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2023.1072894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis has been reported as an effective treatment for unstable atlas fracture, which aims to preserve important C1-C2 motion. However, previous studies have shown that the anterior fixation plates used in this technique were not suitable for the anterior anatomy of the atlas and lacked an intraoperative reduction mechanism. Objective This study aims to evaluate the clinical effects of a novel reduction plate used in transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis for unstable atlas fractures. Methods 30 patients with unstable atlas fractures treated by this technique from June 2011 to June 2016 were included in this study. The patients' clinical data and radiographs were reviewed, and the reduction of the fracture, internal fixation placement, and bone fusion were assessed using pre- and postoperative images. The patients' neurological function, rotatory range of motion, and pain levels were evaluated clinically during follow-up. Results All 30 surgeries were successfully performed, and the average follow-up duration was 23.5 ± 9.5 months (range 9-48 months). One patient suffered atlantoaxial instability during the follow-up and was treated with posterior atlantoaxial fusion. The remaining 29 patients had satisfactory clinical outcomes, with ideal fracture reduction, good screw and plate placement, well-preserved range of motion, neck pain alleviation and solid bone fusion. There were no vascular or neurological complications during the operation or follow-up. Conclusions The use of this novel reduction plate in transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis is a safe and effective surgical option in the treatment of unstable atlas fractures. This technique offers an immediate intraoperative reduction mechanism, which provides satisfactory fracture reduction, bone fusion, and preservation of C1-C2 motion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hong Xia
- Correspondence: Xiangyang Ma Hong Xia
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Shin JJ, Kim KR, Shin J, Kang J, Lee HJ, Kim TW, Hong JT, Kim SW, Ha Y. Surgical Versus Conservative Management for Treating Unstable Atlas Fractures: A Multicenter Study. Neurospine 2022; 19:1013-1025. [PMID: 36274194 PMCID: PMC9816592 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2244352.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This multicenter study compared radiological parameters and clinical outcomes between surgical and nonsurgical management and investigated treatment characteristics associated with the successful management of unstable atlas fractures. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated 53 consecutive patients with unstable atlas fracture who underwent halo-vest immobilization (HVI) or surgical fixation. Clinical outcomes were assessed using neck visual analogue scale and disability index. The radiological assessment included total lateral mass displacement (LMD) and the anterior atlantodental interval (AADI). RESULTS Thirty-two patients underwent surgical fixation and 21 received HVI (mean follow-up, 24.9 months). In the surgical fixation, but not in the HVI, LMD, and AADI showed statistically significant improvements at the last follow-up. The osseous healing rate and time-to-healing were 100% and 14.3 weeks with surgical fixation, compared with 71.43% and 20.0 weeks with HVI, respectively. Patients treated with HVI showed poorer neck pain and neck disability outcomes than those who received surgical treatment. LMD showed an association with osseous healing outcomes in nonoperative management. Clinical outcomes and osseous healing showed no significant differences according to Dickman's classification of transverse atlantal ligament injuries. CONCLUSION Surgical internal fixation had a higher fusion rate, shorter fracture healing time, more favorable clinical outcomes, and a more significant reduction in LMD and AADI compared to nonoperative management. The pitfalls of external immobilization are inadequate maintenance and a lower probability of reducing fractured lateral masses. Stabilization by surgical reduction with interconnected fixation proved to be a more practical management strategy than nonoperative treatment for unstable atlas fractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Jae Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang-Ryeol Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, International St. Mary’s Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University, College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Joongkyum Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea,Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiin Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho Jin Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Vincent’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, Korea,Corresponding Author Yoon Ha Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Tae Woo Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Taek Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Woo Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yeungnam University Medical Center, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yoon Ha
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea,POSTECH Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Korea,Corresponding Author Yoon Ha Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
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Dahdaleh N, Chan K, Shlobin N. Diagnosis and management of isolated C1 fractures: A systematic review. JOURNAL OF CRANIOVERTEBRAL JUNCTION AND SPINE 2022; 13:233-244. [PMID: 36263346 PMCID: PMC9574116 DOI: 10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_61_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Atlas fractures are a common craniocervical injury, often resulting from trauma. However, diagnosis and management of atlas fractures continues to be the subject of controversy. We aimed to characterize the factors related to diagnosis of atlas fractures, delineate important considerations in selecting the optimal management for a patient with an atlas fracture, and compare outcomes of surgical and conservative management. Methods: We performed a systematic review using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus to identify articles that analyzed diagnosis and management of isolated atlas fractures published between 2013 and 2020. Titles and abstracts were screened. Studies meeting prespecified inclusion criteria were reviewed in full. Results: Of 305 resultant articles, 13 were included. C1:C2 ratio and lateral mass displacement (LMD) were used to predict transverse atlantal ligament (TAL) injury. Surgery promoted high fusion rates overall. Stable atlas fractures achieved high fusion rates with conservative management, while spinal fusion promoted greater fusion rates than halo vest immobilization management for unstable fractures. Visual Analog Scale scores, range of motion, and/or LMD improved after surgery. LMD increased for unilateral sagittal split fractures with TAL injury after conservative treatment. Conclusion: Stable atlas fractures can be sufficiently treated conservatively. Unstable atlas fractures can be managed both conservatively and surgically, while surgery is associated with favorable outcomes for unstable isolated atlas fractures. Future studies are necessary to further guide risk stratification and treatment approaches in management of the patients with isolated atlas fractures.
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Lyons J, Mian H. Epidemiology of atlas fractures in the United States: A 20-year analysis. JOURNAL OF CRANIOVERTEBRAL JUNCTION AND SPINE 2022; 13:85-93. [PMID: 35386248 PMCID: PMC8978844 DOI: 10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_164_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Fractures of the atlas represent a large portion of cervical spine trauma in the geriatric population. With an aging and more active population, it is expected that the number of patients sustaining atlas fractures is increasing. However, epidemiologic data regarding the incidence of atlas fractures in large populations are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and demographic characteristics of patients with fractures of the atlas in the United States (US) over the last 20 years. Materials and Methods: This descriptive epidemiology study retrospectively analyzed the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database to identify cases of atlas fractures presenting to US Emergency Departments (EDs) from 2001 to 2020. Annual and overall numbers of fractures and fracture incidence rates, patient demographics (age, gender, race), and injury characteristics (mechanism, associated injuries) were analyzed. Incidence rates are expressed as the number of fractures per million at-risk person-years. Patients were split into four different age groups for comparisons (<18, 18–64, 65–79, 80+ years). Results: An estimated 38,092 cases of acute atlas fractures were identified, representing 11.1% of all cervical fractures and corresponding to an overall incidence rate of 6.2. Slightly more than half (54%) occurred in females and the mean age was 71 years. Overall, a majority (64%) of cases occurred in patients > 70 years old. There was substantial increase in incidence rate with age (<18 years: 0.7; 18–64 years: 2.6; 65–79 years: 17.1; 80 + years: 71.8). The most common injury mechanism was a low-energy fall (74%). Overall, only 42% of atlas fractures were isolated injuries, with 58% of patients sustaining at least one concomitant injury and 48% sustaining at least one additional fracture. Accounting for population growth yielded a significantly increasing incidence over the study period from 1.7 in 2001 to 13.4 in 2020 (annual percent increase = 11, P < 0.00001). Disproportionately large increases in incidence rates were observed in the oldest patient groups. Conclusions: Atlas fractures occur in older patients and are often associated with concomitant injuries to the head and spine. These types of fractures are increasing in the US, especially among the elderly. The annual incidence increased nearly 700% over the course of the study period and in 2020 was over 13 per million overall. In elderly patients >80 years old, the most recent annual incidence rate was over 157 per million.
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Yuh SJ, Wang Z, Boubez G, Shedid D. Hemiparesis resulting from an unusual C1 fracture: A case report and literature review. Surg Neurol Int 2020; 11:449. [PMID: 33408934 PMCID: PMC7771413 DOI: 10.25259/sni_479_2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Jefferson fractures are burst fractures involving both the anterior and posterior arches of C1. They typically result from axial compression or hyperextension injuries. Most are stable, and neurological deficits are rare. They are often successfully treated with external immobilization, but require surgery (e.g., fusion/ stabilization). Case Description: An 89-year-old male presented with a left-sided hemiplegia following a trivial fall. The cervical computed tomography scan revealed a left-sided displaced comminuted C1 fracture involving the arch and lateral mass. The MR revealed posterior cord compression and focal myelomalacia. Six months following an emergent C1–C3 decompression with occiput to C4 instrumented fusion, the patient was neurologically intact and pain-free. Conclusion: An 89-year-old male presented with a left-sided hemiplegia due to a Type 3/4 C1 Jefferson fracture. Following posterior C1–C3 surgical decompression with C0–C4 instrumented fusion, the patient sustained a complete bilateral motor recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Joo Yuh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hopital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Québec, Canada.,Department ofNeurosurgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Zhi Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ghassan Boubez
- Department of Orthopedics, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel Shedid
- Department ofNeurosurgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Zou X, Ouyang B, Wang B, Yang H, Ge S, Chen Y, Ni L, Zhang S, Xia H, Wu Z, Ma X. Motion-preserving treatment of unstable atlas fracture: transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2020; 21:538. [PMID: 32787814 PMCID: PMC7425063 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03575-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background C1-ring osteosynthesis is a valid alternative to posterior C1–C2 or C0–C2 fusion to preserve important C1–C2 motion in the treatment of unstable atlas fractures. Nevertheless, the fixation instruments used in current studies for transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis were not suitable for anterior anatomy of the atlas or did not have reduction mechanism. We therefore present this report to investigate preliminary clinical effects of transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate in unstable atlas fractures. Methods From January 2014 to December 2017, 13 patients with unstable atlas fractures were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were treated with transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate. Pre- and postoperative images were obtained to assess reduction of the fracture, internal fixation placement, and bone union. Neurological function, range of motion, and pain levels were evaluated clinically on follow-up. Results The surgeries were successfully performed in all cases. The average follow-up duration was 16.6 ± 4.4 months (range 12–24 months). One patient suffered screw loosening after operation and underwent replacement operation subsequently. Satisfactory clinical outcomes were achieved in all patients with ideal fracture reduction, reliable plate placement, well-preserved range of motion, and neck pain alleviation. All patients achieved bone union of fractures without loss of reduction or implant failure or C1–C2 instability during the follow-up. No vascular or neurological complication was noted during the operation and follow-up. Conclusions Transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate is a effective surgical treatment for unstable atlas fractures. This technique has a ingenious reduction mechanism, and can provide satisfactory bone union and preservation of C1–C2 motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobao Zou
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, No.1838 North of Guangzhou Road, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China.,Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Beiping Ouyang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, No.1838 North of Guangzhou Road, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China.,Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Binbin Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Haozhi Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Su Ge
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyue Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Ni
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Xia
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Zenghui Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyang Ma
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, No.1838 North of Guangzhou Road, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command of PLA, 111 Liuhua Road, Guangzhou, 510010, People's Republic of China.
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Kumar A, Onggo J, Fon LH, Oh J. Direct Fixation of C1 Jefferson Fracture Using C1 Lateral Mass Screws: A Case Report. Int J Spine Surg 2019; 13:345-349. [PMID: 31531284 DOI: 10.14444/6047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Jefferson fractures are classically described as burst fractures of C1. Traditional surgical treatment of these unstable fractures is either occipito-cervical or posterior C1-C2 fusion, resulting in a significant loss of range of cervical neck movement. This case report discusses the fixation of a Jefferson fracture using C1 lateral mass screws to achieve surgical stabilization while preserving the range of movement. We aim to add to the body of evidence supporting this fixation method. Methods A 39-year-old male presented to our emergency department with an unstable Jefferson fracture caused by trauma. The various treatment options, such as cervical collar, HALO immobilization, occipito-cervical fusion, and atlanto-axial fusion and direct fixation of C1, were evaluated and discussed with the patient. Informed consent was obtained from the patient prior to writing this case report. Results At 3 months postoperation, the patient demonstrated near full range of movement in his neck. He had also resumed driving. By 6 months, the patient returned to work, and at 12 months, imaging confirmed union. Conclusions This case report adds to the body of evidence supporting the technique of C1 lateral mass screws for direct stable fixation of Jefferson fractures. This fixation method preserves the cervical spine range of motion with minimal functional restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aravind Kumar
- Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics, Singapore
| | - James Onggo
- Monash University, Monash Medical School, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lim Hai Fon
- Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics, Singapore
| | - Jacob Oh
- Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics, Singapore
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