C1-C2 posterior fixation: indications, technique, and results

Orthop Clin North Am. 2012 Jan;43(1):11-8, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.ocl.2011.09.004.

Abstract

The atlantoaxial motion segment, which is responsible for half of the rotational motion in the cervical spine, is a complex junction of the first (C1) and second (C2) cervical vertebrae. Destabilization of this joint is multifactorial and can lead to pathologic motion with neurologic sequelae. Posterior spinal fixation of the C1-C2 articulation in the presence of instability has been well described in the literature. Early reports of interspinous/interlaminar wiring have evolved into modern-day pedicle screw/translaminar constructs, with excellent results. The success of a C1-C2 posterior fusion rests on appropriate indications and surgical techniques.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atlanto-Axial Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Atlanto-Axial Joint / physiopathology
  • Atlanto-Axial Joint / surgery*
  • Bone Screws
  • Bone Wires
  • Cervical Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging
  • Cervical Vertebrae / surgery*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fracture Healing / physiology
  • Humans
  • Internal Fixators*
  • Joint Instability / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Instability / surgery*
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging
  • Postoperative Complications / physiopathology
  • Preoperative Care / methods
  • Range of Motion, Articular / physiology
  • Recovery of Function
  • Risk Assessment
  • Spinal Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Fractures / surgery
  • Spinal Fusion / instrumentation*
  • Spinal Fusion / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Treatment Outcome