[Progress on cervical anterior transpedicular screw fixators for lower cervical vertebrae]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Biomechanics

Context:

• Traditional anterior and posterior approaches for cervical spine surgery have limitations.
• Anterior transpedicular screw fixation (ATPS) presents a minimally invasive alternative.
• The unique anatomical channel for ATPS requires careful consideration.

Purpose:

• To review the anatomical, biomechanical, and clinical applications of ATPS in lower cervical vertebrae.
• To identify current research hotspots and future directions for ATPS.
• To evaluate the efficacy and limitations of ATPS compared to traditional methods.

Summary:

• ATPS allows for both decompression and reconstruction through an anterior approach, offering biomechanical and safety benefits.
• Challenges remain in accurately inserting screws and developing advanced internal fixation devices for ATPS.
• Despite a narrow indication range for lower cervical vertebrae, ATPS has shown good clinical effects with systematic study and gradual application.

Impact:

• Highlights the potential of ATPS to improve surgical outcomes in specific cervical spine conditions.
• Identifies key areas for future research and technological development in anterior spinal fixation.
• Provides a comprehensive review to guide clinicians in the application of ATPS.