Three-dimensional quantitative CT analysis of the C2 spinous process and its implications for spinous process screw fixation.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a three-dimensional quantitative computed tomography (CT) analysis of the C2 spinous process and compare the morphometric feasibility of three spinous process screw fixation techniques-vertical, horizontal, and oblique trajectories-to guide clinical applications when conventional C2 fixation is not feasible.

METHODS

CT data from 100 adults (aged 20-70 years) without cervical pathology were retrospectively analyzed. Three-dimensional reconstructions of the C2 vertebra were generated using 3D Slicer software. Morphometric parameters of the spinous process-including height and transverse width at the base, midsection, and tip-were measured. Simulated screw trajectories representing vertical, horizontal, and oblique fixation were modeled in AutoCAD and virtually inserted into the 3D reconstructions using 3D Slicer to calculate trajectory lengths. Gender differences and correlations with age were also analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean spinous process height was 10.50 ± 2.54 mm, decreasing significantly from base to tip (P < 0.001). The width of the spinous process demonstrated a triangular configuration, progressively increasing from cephalic to caudal. Males had significantly greater spinous process widths than females (P < 0.05). Among the three trajectories, horizontal fixation yielded the longest screw path (20.65 ± 3.68 mm), followed by oblique (17.70 ± 3.14 mm) and vertical (14.79 ± 2.19 mm) approaches (P < 0.001). No significant correlations were observed between morphometric parameters and age.

CONCLUSION

The C2 spinous process provides sufficient anatomical space for screw fixation. Horizontal and oblique screw trajectories offer longer and potentially more stable fixation paths and may serve as effective alternatives in salvage or supplementary scenarios.