1995 Volume 44 Issue 3 Pages 1047-1049
A new internal fixation system, the Simmons plating system, for immobilization of the spine has been devised, which is composed of bolts (or screws), washers and plates. The authors have used the system for fixation of the lumbar or thoracolumbar spine in 154 operative procedures performed over 30 months (December 1991-June 1994). Patients were followed clinically and radiographically over 2-30 months. Fusion was achieved in 93.6% of cases with few complications noted. There were only two semirigid fixation failures. Results from this study show that the Simmons plating system is a desirable addition for internal fixation of the spine. Furthermore, the system offers the surgeon many advantages in ease and simplicity of insertion as well as safety and confidence in fixation performance and capability.
