Motion-preserving reduction and fixation of C1 Jefferson fracture using a C1 lateral mass screw construct

Abstract

The treatment of C1 Jefferson fractures is controversial. Non-surgical treatment with halo fixation always bears the risk of insufficient healing with further instability and increasing neck pain. However, a C1-2 fusion can markedly decrease the rotatory motion of the neck. The aim of this report is to describe a new treatment for C1 Jefferson fractures. We used open reduction and C1 fixation using a bilateral C1 lateral mass screw construct. The screws were connected with a rod and nuts to reduce lateral spread of the lateral masses. This method is an alternative surgical option for C1 Jefferson fractures in select patients and can maintain important C1-2 joint motion.