Abstract
The subaxial and cervicothoracic junction is a relatively difficult area for spine surgeons to navigate. Because of different transitional stressors at the junction of the smaller cervical vertebrae and the larger thoracic segments, proximity to neurovascular structures, and complex anatomy, extreme care and precision must be assumed during fixation in these regions. Lateral mass screws, pedicle screws, and translaminar screws are currently the standard of choice in the subaxial cervical and upper thoracic spine. This article addresses the relevant surgical anatomy, pitfalls, and pearls associated with each of these fixation techniques.
Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
MeSH terms
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Atlanto-Axial Joint / diagnostic imaging
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Atlanto-Axial Joint / surgery*
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Bone Screws*
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Cervical Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging
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Cervical Vertebrae / surgery*
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Female
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Follow-Up Studies
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Humans
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Joint Instability / prevention & control
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Male
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Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / instrumentation
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Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / methods
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Patient Positioning
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Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging
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Postoperative Complications / physiopathology
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Range of Motion, Articular / physiology
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Risk Assessment
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Spinal Diseases / diagnostic imaging
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Spinal Diseases / surgery
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Spinal Fusion / instrumentation
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Spinal Fusion / methods*
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Thoracic Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging
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Thoracic Vertebrae / surgery*
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Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
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Treatment Outcome