[The effect of cervical spine instability on sympathetic cervical spondylosis].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of cervical spine instability on sympathetic cervical spondylosis.

METHODS

Twelve patients with cervical spondylosis showing sympathetic symptoms from 1992 to 2 000 were evaluated for cervical spine instability, immobilization of collar brace, MRI and surgical results.

RESULTS

Radiologic evaluation cervical instability was observed radiologically in 7 of the 12 cases. Collar brace was obviously effective in 5 of the 12 cases and slightly effective in 7 cases. MRI showed abnormal signal for instability of the cervical spine in 7 cases. Surgery was markedly effective in 7 cases and moderately effective in 4 cases.

CONCLUSION

Cervical spine instability was an important factor for sympathetic cervical spondylosis, which can be improved effectively by surgery.