Occipitocervical fusion using contoured rods and medial offset connectors: description of a new technique.

Stabilization of the occipitocervical junction and fixation of the occiput is challenging. Rigid fixation with plates and screws has reduced dependence on external immobilization and improved fusion rates. The strength of the occipital fixation can be compromised as plates constrain the ability to place occipital screws along the midline.

Comparison of short-term SF-36 results between total joint arthroplasty and cervical spine decompression and fusion or arthroplasty.

Study Design: Cohort comparison of results of meta-analysis.

Objective: To compare improvement in SF-36 after cervical spine surgery to total hip and joint arthroplasty.

Summary Of Background Data: Health-related quality of life outcome instruments allow comparison of different diseases and change with various treatments.

Biomechanics of occipitocervical fixation.

Study Design: A human cadaveric biomechanical study comparing occipital fixation techniques.

Objectives: To compare ranges of motion between midline and lateral occipital fixation and between rigid and nonrigid occipital fixation of an unstable craniocervical spine.

Summary Of Background Data: New fixation techniques using rods and screws increase surgical choice on where fixation is placed onto the occiput.