Subaxial Cervical Lateral Mass Screw and Rod Fixation: Surgical Experience and Outcome Analysis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Fusion Techniques

Background:

• Subaxial cervical spine injuries (C3-C7) necessitate stabilization due to proximity to critical neurovascular structures.
• Lateral mass screw and rod fixation is a prevalent posterior cervical spine surgery technique, valued for its stability and adaptability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term outcomes and complications associated with lateral mass screw and rod fixation for subaxial cervical spine pathologies.

Main Methods:

• A 3-year prospective observational study included 50 adult patients with subaxial cervical spine instability.
• Neurological assessment used the Frankel grading system; radiologic outcomes included fusion rates and hardware placement at 3 and 6 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• 62% of patients showed neurological improvement by 6 months, with 20% achieving full recovery (Grade E).
• Fusion and hardware success rates were 88% and 96%, respectively. Complications were infrequent, including superficial infection (4%) and transient radiculopathy (6%).

Conclusions:

• Lateral mass screw and rod fixation is a reliable and effective method for stabilizing the subaxial cervical spine.
• The technique demonstrates significant neurological recovery potential and a low incidence of complications.