[Internal fixation with U-shaped pin in the treatment of fracture-dislocation of the cervical spine].

Twenty cases with fracture-dislocation of the cervical spine were treated by U-shaped pin fixation. The U-shaped pin made of Steiman pin was used to hold sublaminar fixation of two segments above and below the vertebra of fracture. When atlas or axis was injured, a pair of small holes were drilled on the occipitale. The closed end of the U-Shaped pin was wired through the holes. Early postoperative ambulation was allowed without external fixation. 18 cases were followed up for 8-35 months. 5 cases of six patients with neurologic deficits recovered completely. The remaining one improved, no failure or loosening of the U-Shaped pin or wires was observed. Sound union of the bone grafts was obtained in all the patients. The results suggest that the operative procedure is simple, with sound fixation and satisfactory reduction and union of the fractures.