C1-C2 Wiring With Timed Self-Obsolescence for Complex C2 Body Fracture

Fractures of C2 are typically managed nonoperatively with good rates of healing. Management decisions are complicated, however, when there are additional fractures in the axis possibly leading to increased instability. Additionally, the techniques used for treating these unstable axis fractures can have either significant complications or permanent loss of range of motion. Here, we present a novel technique for the reduction and stabilization of complex C2 body fracture.

A 34-yr-old woman with a complex C2 body fracture, which included a right pars and left lateral mass fracture, presented after a water slide accident. It was felt that this fracture was both unstable and would not heal in an anatomically acceptable way so an open surgical reduction was needed. After consideration of more traditional fusion and osteosynthesis techniques, we chose to perform a C1-C2 internal stabilization with C1 sublaminar and C2 spinous process wiring. The patient was then instructed to wear a Miami J collar for 3 mo.

The outcome was favorable with good approximation and healing with preserved range of motion.