Subaxial cervical spine ligamentous instability anterior versus posterior fixation: prospective nonrandomized study

Abstract Background The goals of cervical internal fixation are to provide immediate stability control an unstable segment and improve bony union. Early methods preferred a posterior approach consisted simple wire cancellous bone graft. Later, anterior, became recent additions surgeon’s armamentarium. Objectives Comparing between anterior in subaxial ligamentous subluxation regarding the applicability, safety, clinical efficacy achieving enhancing Also cost-related variables studied. Methods This prospective radiographic analysis was performed on 40 patients with subluxation. Half these were treated interlocking screws inter-body cage fusion. other half by lateral mass inter-facet Results There 27 male 13 female mean age 37.4 years. level dislocation C4–5 four, C5–6 14, C6–7 20 more than one two patients. Closed reduction achieved 33 while open through done four cases three cases. Statistically significant difference groups found for estimated blood loss operating room time better results group. no perioperative deaths both groups. Regarding surgery-related complications, there injury root during statistical length hospital stay. stay 7 days. Positioning plate all satisfactory. All followed up at least 6 months. Mean follow-up period Vertebral body alignment (radiological stability) case showed delayed Solid fusion 85% solid 70% fixation. Conclusions Although some literature have indicated that is fixation, yet most studies cadaver subjects so eliminating any fusion, long-term stability, hardware failure. study proved not only safer procedure but also it restores