Efficiency of the Long Lateral Mass Screw

Abstract

Spinal fusion is necessary for patients with an unstable cervical spine. The lateral mass screw is widely used; however, it is unstable in elderly patients with osteoporosis. Although pedicle screws have better fixed force and stability than lateral mass screws, the violation spinal canal or vertebral artery can be a concern. In recent years, various angle screws with longer allows and more oblique screw placement in the lateral mass have been developed. Here, we report techniques using the long lateral mass screw.