Abstract
Abstract Intraoperative skeletal traction with Gardner-Wells tongs or Crutchfield tongs is often used during surgery for craniovertebral junction (CVJ) instability. During these posterior surgical procedures for CVJ instability, there is pressure on occiput/C1 while subperiosteal dissection, drilling, and insertion of screws. With cervical traction, there is a possibility of anterior movement of occiput/C1 due to pressure while performing the above steps. This may lead to undesirable compression of the cervicomedullary junction. The use of rigid head fixation during CVJ surgeries will prevent any such unwanted anterior movement of occiput/C1. Furthermore, the use of the reverse Trendelenburg position allows the body weight to provide counter traction while the rigid frame provides traction allowing reduction of atlantoaxial dislocation. Authors conclude that head fixation in the frame is safer than skeletal traction for CVJ surgeries, through midline posterior approach, for traumatic or congenital anomalies related instabilities.
Published Version
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