Journal of spinal disorders & techniques
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J Spinal Disord Tech · Dec 2007
Case ReportsIso-C3D fluoroscopy-based navigation in direct pedicle screw fixation of Hangman fracture: a case report.
Direct pedicle screw fixation of the C2 is rarely performed in trauma owing to the risk of damage to the neurovascular structures. Computed tomography-based navigation has the problem of change in intersegmental anatomy after positioning for surgery. Iso-C-based computer navigation acquires the intraoperative real-time images after patient positioning and thus avoids registration errors and improves accuracy. ⋯ To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of displaced Hangman fracture treated successfully using Iso-C fluoroscopic navigation assisted direct pedicle screw osteosynthesis in the literature. Intraoperative acquisition of fluoroscopic images avoids registration-related problems. Three-dimensional fluoroscopic navigation gives excellent accuracy and safety in screw instrumentation of Hangman fracture.
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Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a common procedure for radicular and spondylotic disease of the cervical spine. Radiographs are routinely used to evaluate complications in the postoperative ACDF patient, especially airway compromise. Our purpose was to establish baseline data on the amount of change that can be expected in the prevertebral soft tissues after this procedure in the uncomplicated asymptomatic (no airway compromise) 1 or 2-level ACDF patient. Our hypothesis was that the upper cervical spinal levels (C2-C4) would experience greater degrees of swelling than the lower cervical spine (C5-C7). To date no published data exist in the English literature upon which to judge symptomatic patients (experiencing postoperative airway distress) radiographically. ⋯ As we predicted, the greatest edema was noted in the upper cervical spine. Studies need to be performed to compare the radiographic data of symptomatic patients with the baseline data we have collected.