Posterior Reduction and Temporary Fixation Through Intermuscular Approach for Odontoid Fracture

Posterior reduction and temporary fixation (PRTF) through open approach can effectively avoid the loss of C1-C2 motion caused by posterior atlantoaxial fusion in the treatment of odontoid fracture. PRTF through intermuscular approach can preserve the integrity of the paravertebral muscle. However, its contribution to the preservation of C1-C2 rotation remains unassessed in the context of fresh odontoid fractures.

The data of 31 patients with odontoid fractures who underwent PRTF through intermuscular approach were retrospectively reviewed. Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, the time of ambulation and surgery-related complications were recorded. After fracture healing, the instrumentation was removed. The Japanese Orthopedic Association score, Visual Analog Scale score for neck pain, and patient satisfaction were recorded. The range of motion in rotation of C1-C2 was calculated 1 month after removing the instrumentation.

Fracture healing was observed in all patients, and the instrumentation was removed. After removing the instrumentation, the range of motion of C1-C2 in rotation was returned to 35.6° ± 4.8°. Patient satisfaction was improved ( P < .05). There was no significant difference in Japanese Orthopedic Association scores and Visual Analog Scale score for neck pain between 2 values before and after removing the instrumentation ( P > .05). No osteoarthritis was observed at the C1-C2 lateral mass joints. There were no perioperative complications.

PRTF through intermuscular approach can be used as a salvage treatment of an odontoid fracture with an intact transverse ligament in cases of failure of, or contraindication to, anterior screw fixation. This minimally invasive technique can effectively preserve the rotational function of the atlantoaxial complex.