EVALUATION OF ANTERIOR CERVICAL TITANIUM PLATE WITH POSTERIOR DECOMPRESSION AND LATERAL MASS SCREW AND ROD FIXATION IN THE TREATMENT OF LOWER CERVICAL FRACTURE AND DISLOCATION IN ATHLETES

Abstract

Objective: This study assesses the effectiveness and benefits of using anterior cervical titanium plate internal fixation combined with posterior decompression and lateral mass screw and rod fixation in athletes suffering from lower cervical fractures and dislocations. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 150 athletes who underwent the combined surgical procedure between January 2018 and January 2021. Clinical outcomes were measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI), visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and the rate of post-operative complications. Radiographic assessments were performed to evaluate the alignment, fusion rates, and hardware integrity. Results: The study group presented significant improvement in the post-operative NDI scores (from an average of 75.2 preoperatively to 20.3 postoperatively, P<0.001) and VAS scores (from 8.4 to 2.1, P<0.001). The fusion rate was 96% at the 6-month follow-up. Complications included two cases of hardware failure and three instances of transient nerve root irritation, which resolved with conservative management. No severe complications such as permanent neurological deficits or infections were reported. Conclusion: The combined approach of anterior cervical titanium plate internal fixation with posterior decompression and lateral mass screw and rod fixation offers a robust solution for managing lower cervical fractures and dislocations in athletes. This technique ensures stability, allows early mobilization, and leads to excellent clinical outcomes with minimal complications, making it a reliable option for this specific population.