title: Retrospective analysis and modifications of retractor systems for anterior odontoid screw fixation.
abstract: The authors present an in-depth retrospective analysis of retractor systems for anterior odontoid screw fixation. They discuss various modifications and innovations of such systems and describe their own tubular retractor system, in which a beveled end conformal to the ventral surface of the vertebral column at the C2-3 level is introduced together with an incorporated light source. This new retractor system allows optimal anatomical exposure for controlled odontoid screw placement with improved protection of surrounding vital structures.
authors.affiliation: Neurosurgery Associates of Miami Beach, Florida 33180, USA.
authors.forename: Stan G
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Shalayev
authors.forename: In Ki
authors.initials: IK
authors.lastname: Mun
authors.forename: Gregory S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Mallek
authors.forename: Sylvain
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Palmer
authors.forename: Alan D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Levi
authors.forename: Todd M
authors.initials: TM
authors.lastname: Lasner
authors.forename: Allen B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Kantrowitz
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001863:Bone Screws; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D009334:Neck Muscles; D009809:Odontoid Process / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000601:surgery*