Objective : When deciding on a strategy for posterior fixation in atlantoaxial instability, it is very important to ascertain preoperatively about the location of the vertebral artery and the shape of C1 and C2. Herein, we report 5 cases in which we successfull operated according to a plan devised using three-dimensional (3D) models.
Methods : In this study, full-scale 3D models were custom-made on the basis of multi-planer reconstruction from preoperative 3D computed tomography (CT) from the occiput to the middle cervical spine for 5 patients (3 men and 2 women) with atlantoaxial instability (age range, 32-75). We planned each surgical strategy by actually applying instruments to these 3D models before surgery.
Results : In one of the 2 earliest cases, we performed a bilateral posterior atlantoaxial transarticular screw fixation, as developed by Magerl. In the other case, utilizing a posterior atlantoaxial transarticular screw with a connection to the atlas claw on one side, a C2 pedicle screw with a connection to the atlas claw was completed on the opposite side. In the third case, we fixed a bilateral C1 lateral mass screw to a C2 pedicle screw. In yet another case, we fixed the bilateral C1 lateral mass screws to a C2 pedicle screw on one side and a C2 laminar screw on the opposite side. In the final case, involving posterior and lateral ponticles on the C1 posterior arch, bilateral C2 pedicle screws were connected to a C1 lateral mass screw on one side and a C1 atlas claw on the opposite side were achieved. In all cases, stabilization according to preoperative plans was accomplished, and postoperative courses were good.
Conclusions : A navigation system is a useful support tool for accurately applying instruments to the spine, but the preoperative trial installation of instruments such as screw assemblies using 3D models is also a great help and offers reassurance for the surgeons.
抄録全体を表示