Xian-hua Cai, Zhi-chao Liu, Yang Yu, Mei-chao Zhang, Wei-bing Huang


November 2013, Volume 22, Issue 12, pp 2686 - 2694 Original Article Read Full Article 10.1007/s00586-013-2887-1

First Online: 03 July 2013

Purpose

To evaluate a new anterior atlantoaxial transarticular locking plate system using finite element analysis.

Methods

Thin-section spiral computed tomography was performed from occiput to C2 region. A finite element model of an unstable atlantoaxial joint, treated with an anterior atlantoaxial transarticular locking plate system, was compared with the simple anterior atlantoaxial transarticular screw system. Flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation were imposed on the model. Displacement of the atlantoaxial transarticular screw and stress at the screw–bone interface were observed for the two internal fixation systems.

Results

Screw displacement was less using the anterior atlantoaxial transarticular locking plate system compared to simple anterior atlantoaxial transarticular screw fixation under various conditions, and stability increased especially during flexion and extension.

Conclusions

The anterior atlantoaxial transarticular locking plate system not only provided stronger fixation, but also decreased screw-bearing stress and screw–bone interface stress compared to simple anterior atlantoaxial transarticular screw fixation.


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