Anterior Screw Fixation with Endoscopic System Assisted Method for Rostral Type III Odontoid Fracture

Odontoid fractures are relatively common upper cervical spine injuries, comprising up to 20% of cervical spine fractures. The treatment of odontoid fractures remains controversial, and is evolving with the advent of new fixation methods. Recently, many endoscopically-assisted procedures have been performed for various types of spinal surgeries to minimize invasiveness and to avoid soft tissue injury. We present the case of a 55-year-old man who underwent endoscopically-assisted anterior screw fixation for rostral type III odontoid fracture in Taiwan. A literature review of the current management of odontoid fractures and postoperative complications was also performed. [Tzu Chi Med J 2008;20(3):232–236] Article info Article history: Received: November 8, 2007 Revised: November 28, 2007 Accepted: December 12, 2007