A comparison of biomechanical stability and pullout strength of two C1–C2 fixation constructs

Publication year: 2011
Source: The Spine Journal, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 2 June 2011
Jason W., Savage , Worawat, Limthongkul , Hyung-Soon, Park , Li-Qun, Zhang , Eldin E., Karaikovic
Background context: Several fusion techniques are used to treat atlantoaxial instability. Recent literature suggests that intralaminar screw (LS) fixation and pedicle screw (PS) fixation offer similar stability and comparable pullout strength. No studies have compared these characteristics after cyclic loading. Purpose: To compare the stability and pullout strength of intra-LSs and PSs in a C1–C2 instability model after 1,000 cycles of axial loading. Study design: In vitro biomechanical study. Outcome measures: Stability in axial rotation and screw pullout strength after cyclic loading. Methods: Six fresh-frozen human cadaveric cervical spines (C1–C2) were used in this study. C1–C2 instability was mimicked via odontoidotomy at its base and posterior soft-tissue release, including…