Bilateral C1-C2 claw for atlantoaxial instability.
OBJECTIVE
Atlantoaxial stability can be achieved by laminar hook systems via posterior approach. This technique is much more safer than using screws. We presented our experience with the C1-C2 claw procedure.


METHODS
Seven patients with atlantoaxial instability were operated by using C1 and C2 hooks, rods and transverse connector at Neurosurgery Clinic of Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty between the years 2005 and 2008.


RESULTS
Satisfactory stabilization was achieved in all patients. Operative complication or instrumentation failure was not observed.


CONCLUSIONS
C1-C2 claw is a safe technique and adequate stabilization is achieved with the use of a transverse connector.
I.U. Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Neurosurgery Department, Istanbul, Turkey. drhakanhanimoglu@hotmail.com
Hakan
H
Hanimoglu
Lale
L
Hanci
Mehmet Yasar
MY
Kaynar
Murat
M
Hanci
D000293:Adolescent; D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D001858:Bone Nails; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult