Dorsal open reduction with pedicle screw rod internal fixation for lower cervical spine dislocation: A retrospective analysis of 12 cases.

BACKGROUND: Lower cervical spine dislocation remains a surgical challenge.

METHODS: Twelve patients with lower cervical dislocation due to articular process injury underwent dorsal open reduction and manual pedicle screw rod fixation. Patients with cervical spinal cord injury received simultaneous open door expansive laminoplasty. Neurological function was evaluated using ASIA Impairment Scale 12.

RESULTS: Median time from injury to operation was 10 days (range, 5 to 52 days). Anatomic reduction was achieved in all patients. In nine patients with cervical spinal cord injury, 55.5% (5/9) showed improvement in ASIA grade following surgery. Unilateral numbness of the superior radicular area in one patient resolved 2 weeks post-surgery and two cases (11.1%, 2/9) had postoperative leakage of the cerebrospinal fluid, which resolved in 11 days and 13 days, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Dorsal open reduction and manual pedicle screw rod fixation is safe and effective for lower cervical spine dislocation due to articular process injury.