title: Internal fixation for atlanto-axial instability in children.
abstract: A new and simple method for the operative treatment of atlanto-axial instability in children is described. The technique involves a metal rectangle wired in place between the occiput and cervical spine to act as an internal fixation device. Onlay bone grafts subsequently produce bony fusion. A synchronous decompression of the cervical canal can be performed and there is no need for complex or prolonged external fixation.
authors.affiliation: Children's Hospital, Ladywood Middleway, Birmingham, UK.
authors.forename: G A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Flint
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Hockley
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D001860:Bone Plates; D001864:Bone Wires; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000601:surgery; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices; D011859:Radiography; D014054:Tomography