Single anterior approach surgery for old cervical spine subluxation

Abstract

Objective To implore the feasibility of using single anterior approach surgery for old cervical spine subluxation. Methods From May 2004 to July 2006,16 cases of old cervical spine subluxation underwent cervical spine surgery through anterior approach at least 2 months after injury. During operation, we managed to reconstruct the cervical vertebral body alignment through a special anterior approach decompression, application of retractor instrument, titanium mesh and plate manipulation. Results Follow-ups averaged 8.5(6 to 11) months. The cervical vertebral body alignment Was obtained in all the 16 cases. The osseous fusion was assured in all cases with no instrument failure. The JOA neurological scores were improved from 13.4 preoperatively to 15.9 postoperatively. Conclusion If there is no posterior compression and the posterior structure has a fibrous fusion, the single anterior approach is good enough for the old cervical spine subluxation to maintain alignment and obtain stability, and posterior reduction is not necessary. Key words: Cervical vertebrae; Dislocation; Instrumentation; Anterior approach