A new transodontoid fixation technique for delayed type II odontoid fracture: technical note
A Fahir Ozer1, Murat Cosar, Tunç B Oktenoglu
1Department of Neurosurgery, VKV American Hospital, Istanbul, 34365 Turkey.
Surgical Neurology
|February 26, 2008
Summary
A novel anterior transodontoid screw fixation technique shows promise for treating delayed type II odontoid fractures. This method may accelerate fusion and offers a viable surgical alternative to conservative management.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Fusion Techniques
Background:
- Delayed type II odontoid fractures present challenges for fusion.
- Sclerotic layer formation can impede healing after surgery.
- Investigating techniques to enhance fusion in chronic fractures is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel anterior transodontoid screw fixation technique.
- To assess the efficacy of reducing sclerotic layers for accelerated fusion.
- To compare outcomes with classical anterior transodontoid screw fixation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 10 chronic type II odontoid fracture cases (trauma > 6 weeks prior).
- Four patients underwent novel anterior transodontoid screw fixation.
- Six patients underwent classical anterior transodontoid screw fixation.
Main Results:
- The novel technique yielded good results in all four treated cases.
- A minimum follow-up of 38 months showed no nonunion or infection.
- No vascular or brain-stem injuries were observed in the novel technique group.
Conclusions:
- Transodontoid screw fixation is a preferable treatment for delayed type II odontoid fractures.
- This surgical approach offers a viable alternative to conservative treatment.
- The new technique demonstrates safety and efficacy in promoting fusion.
