Unstable odontoid fractures: technical appraisal of anterior extrapharyangeal open reduction internal fixation for irreducible unstable odontoid fractures. Patient series

Background: Displaced odontoid fractures that are irreducible with traction and have cervicomedullary compression by the displaced distal fracture fragment or deformity caused by facetal malalignment require early realignment and stabilization. Realignment with ultimate solid fracture fusion and atlantoaxial joint fusion, in some situations, are the aims of surgery. Fifteen such patients were treated with direct anterior extrapharyngeal open reduction and realignment of displaced fracture fragments with realignment of the atlantoaxial facets, followed by a variable screw placement (VSP) plate in compression mode across the fracture or anterior atlantoaxial fixation (transarticular screws or atlantoaxial plate screw construct) or both.

Observations: Anatomical realignment with rigid fixation was achieved in all patients. Fracture fusion without implant failure was observed in 100% of the patients at 6 months, with 1 unrelated mortality. Minimum follow-up has been 6 months in 14 patients and a maximum of 3 years in 4 patients, with 1 unrelated mortality.

Lessons: Most irreducible unstable odontoid fractures can be anatomically realigned by anterior extrapharyngeal approach by facet joint manipulation. Plate (VSP) and screws permit rigid fixation in compression mode with 100% fusion. Any associated atlantoaxial instability can be treated from the same exposure.