Polyetheretherketone cage for treating type II and type IIa Hangman’s fractures：6-month follow-up / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Unstable cases of Hangman’s fracture or traumatic spondylilisthesis which are type II, IIa and III should be treated surgicaly. Retropharyngeal approach was employed in exposure of anterior upper cervical region. However, dissection and traction around important structures make the procedure complicated and increase the chance of nerve injury. OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the clinical curative effect and safety of an innovative operative technique in which a polyetheretherketone cage was used to perform cervical spinal fusion for the treatment of Hangman’s fracture. METHODS: Eight patients with type II or IIa Hangman’s fracture were enroled in this study and received cervical fusions at C2/3 levels. During folow-up postoperatively, they received X-ray examination. Fusion time and implant position were evaluated. The angle of deformity (α) and the displacement distance (β) were compared pre-operatively and 6-month post-operatively to measure reduction. The functional outcomes were also compared using the Post-Traumatic Neck Score (Mayo) pre-operatively and 6-month post-operatively, while neck pain was further investigated by Visual Analogue Scale score. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Al eight patients were folowed-up successfuly, with an average folow-up of 13 months (range 6-26 months). Compared with pre-operatively, Clinical Post-Traumatic Neck Score (Mayo) was increased, Visual Analogue Scale score, angle deformity (α) and displacement distance (β) were reduced at 6-month post-operatively (P < 0.05). Neck activity was not limited in final folow-up. Bone fusion was found in al patients at 3 or 6 months post-operatively, and no complication was detected. Results confirm that polyetheretherketone cage for type II and IIa Hangman’s fracture could achieve good outcomes and safety.