Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacies, indications and application values of posterior fusion plus pedicle screw fixation in the treatment of upper cervical spine instability.
Methods: From May 2006 to December 2010, a total of 24 patients with atlantoaxial instability were treated with C1-2 pedicle screws and rod fixation under general anesthesia. There were 18 males and 6 females with a mean age of 49.8 years old (range: 17 - 69).
Results: The postoperative radiographs verified a good position of all screws with satisfactory atlantoaxial reduction. A mean follow-up period of 23 months (range: 3 - 45) showed no injury of spinal cord and vertebral artery or inter fixation failure. Atlantoaxial alignment and stability were restored without instrumentation-related complications.
Conclusion: Posterior atlantoaxial pedicle screw and rod fixation provide immediate three-dimensional rigid fixation of atlantoaxial joint. It is a more effective technique than with previously reported techniques.