Post-traumatic ligamentous instability of the atlantoaxial joint: a comparison between the Gallie and Brooks fusions.
We reviewed 37 patients following a posterior spinal fusion for traumatic ligamentous instability of the atlanto-axial joint. All patients were neurologically intact and the atlanto-dental interval ranged from 5 to 9 mm. A Gallie fusion was performed in 19 patients, a Brooks fusion in 16 patients and an occipitocervical fusion in two patients. A SOMI brace was used postoperatively for 12 weeks. Bony fusion was obtained in 32 patients. Displacement occurred in 11 patients, five of whom developed non-union.
Department of Orthopaedics, University of Natal, South Africa.
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Govender
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NgCelwane
D000328:Adult; D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint / Q000293:injuries*; D016025:Bone Transplantation; D001864:Bone Wires; D001915:Braces; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000379:methods*; D014143:Traction