Surgical stabilization of traumatic cervical spine dislocation using methyl methacrylate. Long-term results in 26...

Twenty-six patients with traumatic cervical spine fracture-dislocations had spinal stabilization with methyl methacrylate (acrylic) as the primary support. In most cases a 3/4-in. stainless steel screw was inserted into the articular pillars of the fractured vertebra and of the two adjacent vertebrae, followed by application of the acrylic in the form of an oblong mold over the heads of the screws. The follow-up period in these 26 patients ranged from 6 months to 7 years. There were no instances of wound infection or increased neurological impairment. Vertebral elements remained aligned in 25 of the 26 patients. Breakage of the acrylic support was documented in two patients, but in only one was surgical repair required. The results of this study indicate that the procedure is a safe and effective method for both immediate and long-term stabilization of cervical spine fracture-dislocations.