[The use of lateral mass screws and pedicle screws for the treatment of injury of lower cervical spine].

OBJECTIVE

To discuss the effect of the use of the cervical lateral mass plates screws and T(1) pedicle screws for the treatment of C(6) to C(7) injury through posterior approach.

METHODS

There were 8 patients in the study group; Each of them had been injured with low cervical spine C(6) or C(7). There were 6 cases with C(6)-C(7) injury and 2 cases with C(7) injury. According to ASIA classification, 3 cases were in grade C and 5 cases in D. The lateral mass screws were placed on the lateral masses using Margel technique. Lamina or facet bone allografting were used to achieve a long-term stability.

RESULTS

All 8 patients were followed up from 5 to 37 months (mean 15 months). No operative death occurred. There were no cord or vertebral artery injury, cerebrospinal fluid leak, nerve roots injury, screw malposition or back out, loose of alignment or implant failure. Clinical symptom and ASIA classification were improved in all patients. Postoperative MRI scanning confirmed satisfactory screw placement in all cases.

CONCLUSION

This technique is safe and benefit to patients with low cervical spine C(6) or C(7) injury.