Screw implantation in spinous process for occipitoaxial fixation

The feasibility of direct implantation of screws into the spinous process of the axis for fixation of plates in occipitoaxial stabilization is discussed. The method was used in 11 cases of congenital craniovertebral anomalies. The relatively strong and stubby spinous process of the axis in cases with occipitalization of the atlas facilitated screw implantation. In three cases two screws were implanted into the spinous process. The follow-up ranged from 3 to 43 months, the average being 26 months. During the period of follow-up one screw backed out from the spinous process. In the rest of the cases the screw in the spinous process satisfactorily fixed the axial end of the plate and stabilized the region. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.