Virginia Spine Institute

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Publications & Presentations

Management of Acute Odontoid Fractures: Operative Techniques and Complication Avoidance

Posted on: 06/15/2000

Author: Brian R. Subach, MD, FACS

Shilpakar SSK, McLaughlin MR, Haid RW, Rodts GE, Subach BR. Management of Acute Odontoid Fractures: Operative Techniques and Complication Avoidance. Neurosurg Focus. 2000 Jun 15;8(6):e3

In this article the authors describe the management of Type II odontoid fractures with special attention to operative technique and avoidance of complication. Anterior odontoid screw fixation is a procedure the authors have performed over the last 8 years in cases with acute Type II and rostral Type III odontoid fractures. In cases of Chronic Type II odontoid fractures and in patients with transverse ligament disruption, the authors prefer to undertake posterior transarticular facet screw fixation supplemented by bone graft and interspinous C1-2 wiring. The technical aspects of these procedures are described with a focus on operative nuances. Selection criteria and techniques that the authors have refined over the years have helped them to optimize success rates and minimize complications. Back to articles