RESUMO
Objective To investigate the efficacy of lower cervical spine fracture and dislocation treated by Halo-vest reduction combined with anterior decompression and internal fixation.Methods From January 2009 to December 2012,26 cases of lower cervical spine fracture and dislocation underwent Halovest reduction combined with anterior decompression and internal fixation.There were 18 males and 8 females,aged 19-64 years (mean,42.1 years).Injury resulted from traffic crashes in 11 cases,high falls in 9,and hit by heavy objects in 6.Segment of injury was C5/6in 10 cases,C6/7in 9,C3/4in 4,and C4/5in 3.Prior to anterior decompression/internal fixation and fusion,the Halo-vest external fixation was performed.Neurological performance was evaluated after operation.Results All the patients were followed up for 24-36 months (mean,27.4 months).According to the X-ray films and CT scan at the final follow-up,the alignment of the cervical spine was maintained and the implanted bone was completely fused without internal fixation breaking or loosening.Preoperative neurological status according to the Frankel grading was grade A in 6 cases,grade B in 8,grade C in 7,and grade E in 2.After operation,there were 5 cases in grade A,3 in grade B,4 in grade C,5 in grade D,and 9 in grade E.All together,6 cases presented two-grade improvement in neurological status,13 one-grade improvement,and 5 no changes (P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion Halo-vest reduction combined with anterior decompression and internal fixation is safe and effective in treatment of lower cervical spine fracture and dislocation.