C1–C2 Pedicle Screw Fixation with Rigid Cantilever Beam Construct: Case Report and Technical Note

Abstract

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE Transarticular screw fixation of the C1–C2 complex provides immediate rigid fixation of the unstable spine. The technique is not feasible in a certain proportion of patients because of the position of the vertebral artery or the patient's body habitus. CLINICAL PRESENTATION The authors describe a rigid screw technique for the surgical treatment of a woman who was excluded as a candidate for C1–C2 transarticular screw fixation. TECHNIQUE C1–C2 pedicle screw fixation was achieved using a fixed moment arm cantilever beam system. This system provided immediate rigid fixation of the C1–C2 complex in a patient who was not a candidate for transarticular screw fixation. CONCLUSION This technique is technically more forgiving than posterior transarticular screw fixation and may be applied to a broader spectrum of patients.