Post-traumatic ligamentous instability of the atlantoaxial joint: a comparison between the Gallie and Brooks fusions.

Abstract

We reviewed 37 patients following a posterior spinal fusion for traumatic ligamentous instability of the atlanto-axial joint. All patients were neurologically intact and the atlanto-dental interval ranged from 5 to 9 mm. A Gallie fusion was performed in 19 patients, a Brooks fusion in 16 patients and an occipitocervical fusion in two patients. A SOMI brace was used postoperatively for 12 weeks. Bony fusion was obtained in 32 patients. Displacement occurred in 11 patients, five of whom developed non-union.