Unilateral Biplanar Screw-Rod Fixation Technique for the Treatment of Odontoid Fractures in Patients with Atlantoaxial Bone or Vascular Abnormalities.

PURPOSE: This study aims to introduce the Unilateral Biplanar Screw-Rod Fixation (UBSF) technique (A hybrid fixation technique: Two sets of atlantoaxial screws were placed on the same side), which serves as a salvage method for traditional posterior atlantoaxial fixation. To summarize the indications of this technique and to assess its safety, feasibility, and clinical effectiveness in the treatment of odontoid fractures.

METHODS: Patients with odontoid fractures were enrolled according to special criteria. Surgical duration and intraoperative blood loss were documented. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months. X-ray and CT scans were conducted and reviewed at 1 day, and patients asked return for CT reviews at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after surgery until fracture union. Recorded and compared the Neck Visual Analog Scale and Neck Disability Index pre-surgery and at one week and 12 months post-surgery.

RESULTS: Between January 2016 to December 2022, our study enrolled 7 patients who were diagnosed with odontoid fractures accompanied by atlantoaxial bone or vascular abnormalities. All 7 patients underwent successful UBSF surgery, and no neurovascular injuries were recorded during surgery. Fracture union was observed in all patients, and the Neck VAS and NDI scores improved significantly at 1 week and 12 months postoperative (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS: The UBSF technique has been demonstrated to be safe, feasible, and effective in treating odontoid fractures. In cases where the atlantoaxial bone or vascular structure exhibits abnormalities, it can function as a supplementary or alternative approach to the conventional posterior C1-2 fixation.