Surgical Stabilization of C2–C3 Dislocation in Children Younger Than Eight Years
Abstract
Introduction: Traumatic dislocations of the C2-C3 segment in children are associated with a high risk of neurological injury and even death due to their inherent instability. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, surgical treatment is indicated. We describe a double-fixation technique performed during the same surgical procedure. Initially, reduction and primary stabilization of the C2-C3 segment are achieved using sublaminar cerclage or transfixation with a nonabsorbable suture. Subsequently, osteosynthesis with facet screws is performed. In younger children, minifragment screws and a custom-made plate are used, whereas in olderchildren, standard adult instrumentation can be employed; in both cases, fixation follows the Magerl technique. Conclusion: The combined and complementary use of two stabilization techniques provides greater intraoperative safety and yields stable longterm outcomes.Downloads
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