Intra-operative screw trimming in direct screw fixation of the odontoid process fracture--technical note

For a satisfactory direct screw fixation of fractures of the odontoid process it is necessary to use a screw of the proper total length and thread length, but such an optimal ready-made screw is not always available. The authors describe a technique of intra-operative screw trimming using a high-speed diamond drill. This adjustment is easily and quickly performed. It enables the screw to act as a compression screw, which facilitates fusion of the fractured surfaces.