title: [Osteosynthesis of the dens axis fracture].
abstract: Fractures of the dens axis are very rare and their treatment has always been conservative. But in many fractures, principally in those of the fracture type II, a pseudarthrosis develops. The instability, which results from this pseudarthrosis is a dangerous situation, that can be responsible for late neurological complications such as quadriplegia or sudden death, even years after the primary accident. A series of 5 patients with a fracture of the dens axis, which are stabilized by a direct screw osteosynthesis, is presented. The operation technique is discussed in detail. The results of the technique are compared with other series in the recent literature.
authors.affiliation: Afdeling Traumatologie en Spoedgevallenheelkunde, Universitair Ziekenhuis, Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.
authors.forename: P M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Rommens
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Goffin
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001863:Bone Screws; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009809:Odontoid Process / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*
vernacular_title: De osteosynthese van de densfractuur.