A Study of Postoperative Complications of C1-C2 Posterior Fixation at Our Hospital

• Published in: Journal of Spine Research Vol. 15; no. 10; pp. 1230 - 1233
• Main Authors: Shinjo, Ryuichi, Sato, Kaori, Kagami, Yujiro, Ogura, Keisuke
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Japanese
• Published: The Japanese Society for Spine Surgery and Related Research 20.10.2024; 一般社団法人 日本脊椎脊髄病学会
• Subjects: C1-C2後方固定術; C1/C2 posterior fixation; complication; 合併症
• ISSN: 1884-7137; 2435-1563
• DOI: 10.34371/jspineres.2024-1004

Introduction: C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle screws are widely used for C1/C2 posterior fixation in Japan considering their remarkable fixation abilities. However, few reports are available in the literature because of complications such as dysphagia and damage to the vertebral artery or spinal cord.Methods: We reviewed complications from 19 patients (8 with degenerative diseases and 11 with traumatic injuries; mean age of 64.8 years) who underwent C1/C2 posterior fixation at our hospital.Results: The observed intraoperative complications were posterior arch fracture and vertebral artery injury; moreover, postoperative complications included deep infection and occipital bone fracture. The screw perforation rates of 10.5% and 7.9% were observed in C1 and C2, respectively.Conclusion: A comprehensive preoperative evaluation and considering all available intraoperative surgical support devices may help prevent complications.