Outcomes of occipitocervical fixation using a spinous process screw in C2 as a third anchor point for occipitocervical fixation: a case presentation

Abstract

Abstract Background Posterior occipitocervical fixation and fusion are often required to address occipitocervical instability. Safe, stable internal fixation with screws is vital for the success of such surgery. Thus, poor selection of an internal fixation technique may cause fixation and fusion failure, possibly leading to neurovascular injury. Hence, in certain cases, such as in patients with severe instability of an occipitocervical deformity or osteoporosis, we hypothesized that having a third anchor point (a screw in C2) could enhance the stability of the occipitocervical fixation. Case presentation A 31-year-old man with occipitocervical deformity and spinal cord edema underwent a traditional occipitocervical fixation procedure but with the addition of a spinous process screw in C2 as a third anchor point. The procedure included posterior internal fixation and fusion. The occipitocervical fixation was completed by inserting occipital screws, bilateral C2 pedicle screws, C3 lateral mass screws, and a spinous process screw in C2 as a third anchor point. There were no neurovascular complications or incision-site infections. Postoperatively, radiography and computed tomography showed that the occipitocervical reduction and internal fixation had resulted in good spinal alignment, and magnetic resonance imaging showed no obvious spinal cord compression. At 4 months after the surgery, fusion was observed, and the occipitocervical screws remained well positioned. The patient continued to be monitored for 24 months postoperatively. At the 24-month follow-up visit, the muscle strength of the limbs was grade 5, and the patient’s sensation function had improved over his preoperative condition. Conclusions Use of a C2 spinous process screw as a third anchor point may enhance the stability of occipitocervical fixation. Further biomechanical and clinical studies are needed to validate this result.