The Orthopedic clinics of North America
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Principles of revision cervical spine surgery are based on adequate decompression of neural elements and mechanical stability via appropriate selection of surgical approach and constructs producing long-term stability with arthrodesis. When planning revision surgery, the surgeon must consider the cause of the underlying problem (eg, biological, mechanical), the potential for complications, and clinical outcomes that can reasonably be expected. This information should be clearly explained to the patient during the informed consent process. This article provides the spine care provider with an understanding of how to appropriately evaluate and manage the most common cervical conditions that require revision cervical spine surgery.
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Orthop. Clin. North Am. · Jan 2012
ReviewSubaxial cervical and cervicothoracic fixation techniques--indications, techniques, and outcomes.
The subaxial and cervicothoracic junction is a relatively difficult area for spine surgeons to navigate. Because of different transitional stressors at the junction of the smaller cervical vertebrae and the larger thoracic segments, proximity to neurovascular structures, and complex anatomy, extreme care and precision must be assumed during fixation in these regions. Lateral mass screws, pedicle screws, and translaminar screws are currently the standard of choice in the subaxial cervical and upper thoracic spine. This article addresses the relevant surgical anatomy, pitfalls, and pearls associated with each of these fixation techniques.
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Orthop. Clin. North Am. · Jan 2012
ReviewCervical total disk replacement: complications and avoidance.
Anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion for neurologic deficits, radicular arm pain, and neck pain refractory to conservative management are successful. The approach and procedure were first described in 1955 and have become the anterior cervical standard of care for orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons. ⋯ The possibility of obtaining anterior cervical decompression while maintaining adjacent segment motion led to the advent of cervical total disk replacement. The Food and Drug Administration has approved 3 cervical devices with other investigational device exemption trials under way.
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Minimally invasive approaches and operative techniques are becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of cervical spine disorders. Minimally invasive spine surgery attempts to decrease iatrogenic muscle injury, decrease pain, and speed postoperative recovery with the use of smaller incisions and specialized instruments. ⋯ Complications are also discussed. Additionally, illustrated cases are presented detailing the use of minimally invasive surgical techniques.
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Orthop. Clin. North Am. · Jan 2012
ReviewManagement of adjacent segment disease after cervical spinal fusion.
Adjacent segment disease (ASD) was described after long-term follow-up of patients treated with cervical fusion. The term describes new-onset radiculopathy or myelopathy referable to a motion segment adjacent to previous arthrodesis and often attributed to alterations in the biomechanical environment after fusion. ⋯ Although prevention of ASD was one major impetus behind the development of motion-sparing surgery, the literature does not yet clearly distinguish a difference in the rate of ASD between fusion and disk replacement. Surgical techniques during index surgery may reduce the rate of ASD.