Modern instrumentation of the pediatric occiput and upper cervical spine: review article.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Rigid screw rod techniques for cervical stabilization are widely used in adults. The benefits of rigid internal fixation include increased fusion rates, improvements in deformity correction, and diminished immobilization requirements. Applications of these techniques in children are challenging due to size constraints and the pathologic conditions encountered which require instrumented cervical fusions. Preparation as well as thorough understanding of the anatomy and surgical techniques is paramount to surgical safety in pediatric patients.

Questions/purposes

This review article serves as an educational tool regarding the use of modern posterior instrumentation techniques for pediatric cervical deformity.

Methods

Expert review based on clinical expertise an

SUBMITTER: Hedequist D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4342396 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature