Posterior occipitocervical fusion in rheumatoid arthritis and other instabilities

J Orthop Sci. 2000;5(1):82-7. doi: 10.1007/s007760050013.

Abstract

Occipitocervical fixation remains a surgical challenge. A Y-plate in combination with transarticular screw fixation provides a simple and economically favorable solution to this problem. By integrating the transarticular screws into the Y-plate immediate postoperative reliable stabilization is achieved. Clinical results confirm the reliability and the low rate of pseudarthrosis with this surgical technique.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / complications
  • Atlanto-Occipital Joint / surgery*
  • Cervical Vertebrae / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internal Fixators*
  • Joint Instability / etiology
  • Joint Instability / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Spinal Fusion / instrumentation
  • Spinal Fusion / methods*