Zero-Profile Implantation Combined with Miniscrew Fixation via Anterior Approach for Huge Teardrop Fracture of Axis.

BACKGROUND

We present 3 case reports to share our experience and explore the safety and efficacy of treating huge teardrop fracture of the axis (HTDFA).

CASE DESCRIPTION

Case 1: A 47-year-old man suffered from generalized pain after falling from a height. Case 2: A 39-year-old woman suffered facial contusions and lacerations during a car accident, and her neck was sore. Case 3: A 51-year-old woman was hit in the face during a car accident, and her neck was sore. These 3 patients had limited neck movement and no nerve injury, and their radiographs showed HTDFA. The patients were treated with Zero-Profile (Zero-P) implant placement combined with miniscrew fixation.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of HTDFA by Zero-P implant placement combined with miniscrew fixation is effective and stable. The last follow-up examination of the patients showed that fusion had been achieved, and their neck pain had disappeared. Anterior reduction, diskectomy, and Zero-P implantation combined with miniscrew fixation can be used to treat HTDFA. Both avulsed teardrop fragment removal and C2-3 bone grafting lead to bone healing. This method is effective, safe, and simple for the treatment of HTDFA.