Occipito-cervical fusion using some types of implants – anchors in the cranio-cervical pathologies

In this article is presented the solution of occipito-cervical stabilization with help of anchors in many different pathology of cranio-cervical junction, and they are compared with the solutions practiced up to now. The estimation was made on the base of biomechanical and clinical research. Between 2000 and 2009, in Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Department Medical College, Jagiellonian University 25 patients (9 females, 16 man) underwent occipito-cervical stabilization and posterior fusion. Mean patient’s age was 40 years (from 8 to 72). The reason of surgery was many different pathology: fractures C1/C2 – 15 patients, pathology fractures (metastases of cancer) – 4 patients, intramedullare tumor – 1 patient, subluxation C1/C1 because of rheumatoid arthritis – 1 patient, congenital defect cranio-cervical junction – 3 patients, tuberculosis of C1/C2 – 1 patient. The occipital anchor is an element intended for connecting an occiput with occipital rod. The anchor replaces bone screws, wires or hooks. Because of a small height above the squama of occipital bone it isn’t risky to make disorders with postoperative wound healing. Giving stable osteosynthesis it isn’t necessary to use a collar during postoperative period. Introduced solution of stabilization cranium and spinal column can be used for internal stabilization of cranio-spinal union, and it is construction which allows to get correct union of fractured bones. During the follow up period 1 year proper bone healing was observed and posterior fusion revealed. Patients after pathology fractures were send to Rehabilitation Department to continue treatment.