Unconventional alternative for hook plate fixation of the cervicothoracic junction

The most common cause for instability at the cervicothoracic junction (C7-T1) is traumatic fracture-dislocation. Surgical treatment of these unstable injuries has gained wide acceptance as the treatment of choice. The hook plate is the device of choice for achieving dorsal fusion of these injuries. It guarantees independent stability that is sufficient even in cases without anterior stabilization. Because of the high cost of commercially available hook plate systems, we resorted to the use of modified semi-tubular plates for posterior fixation of the cervicothoracic junction. Semi-tubular plates are widely available, cost effective, and can be easily modified to function as a hook plate.