The Application of A Crossed Rod Configuration in Posterior Occipitocervical and Atlantoaxial Fixation: A Retrospective Study of 21 Cases

Abstract

Abstract Background. The crossed rod configuration is a novel connection type for posterior occipitocervical and atlantoaxial fixation, which has been reported to have better biomechanical stability than existing configurations. However, the clinical application of this technique has yet to be studied. Objective. To evaluate the clinical outcome of the crossed rod configuration applied in posterior occipitocervical and atlantoaxial fixation. Methods. From January 2011 to December 2014, 21 patients with craniocervical junction disorders were treated surgically, and stability was reconstructed by posterior occipitocervical or atlantoaxial fixation with a crossed rod configuration. The patients’ clinical data were retrospectively analyzed. Internal fixation, neurological status, clinical symptoms, bone fusion, and complications were evaluated. Results. All surgeries were successful with no neurovascular injury in any of the patients. Clinical symptoms were relieved in all 21 patients (100%). Satisfactory internal fixation was found on postoperative images. Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores and occipitocervical visual analog scale ratings were significantly improved after operation (P < 0.05). The average follow-up duration was 22.7 ± 7.5 months (range 12–36 months). All patients achieved bone fusion without complications during the follow-up. Conclusions. The application of a crossed rod configuration in posterior occipitocervical and atlantoaxial fixation provides reliable stabilization and may be a viable alternative to current configuration methods for clinical use.