Posterior Cervical Fusion (PCF)
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The surgical procedure is performed on the back of the neck. Attachment or fusion of two damaged cervical vertebrae or more vertebral fusion is also called Arthrodesis. Sometimes metal plates may be used to secure the nuts.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_left=”20″][vc_column][vc_column_text]Posterior Cervical Fusion (PCF)
1- Introduction of PCF Method
The surgical procedure is performed on the back of the neck. Attachment or fusion of two damaged cervical vertebrae or more vertebral fusion is also called Arthrodesis. Sometimes metal plates may be used to secure the nuts.
2- Clinical Application of Neck Screw and Rod System
(a) Clinically Applicable Cases:
PCF can be used to manage neck fractures, vertebral displacement, and deformity in the abnormal curvature of the cervical vertebrae.
(b) Risks and Complications:
Every major surgery is associated with complications. Some of the complications associated with posterior neck fusion surgery include the following:
- Complications of anesthesia
- Conditions such as clogged arteries
- Do not connect or connect incorrectly
- Infection
- Damage to the nerves of the spine
- Problem related to the bin
- Chronic pain
3- Introduction of Implants Related to PCF Method
3-1- Neck Screw and Rod System
Using the posterior surgery method, the static stabilization system of the bolt and rod stabilizes the bony parts of the spine (vertebrae) in the cervical region in a fixed manner without freedom of movement. In screw-rod placement, the pedicle screw is inserted into the body part of the nut through the pedicle part of the nut. The anatomical model of the spine is then provided at the site of injury by placing a rod with high mechanical strength on the pedicle screws.
Figure 1: Neck Screw and Rod System
3-2- Features and Benefits
- Made of titanium alloy with enhanced mechanical strength
- Monoaxial pedicle screw to increase the stability of screw-rod stabilization fatigue against physiological loads
- Polyaxial pedicle screw with the ability to angle the screw body with the screw head to improve the placement of the deformed screw and rod in the anatomical stabilization of the spine in the damaged area.
- Pedicle screw thread with enhanced winning ability in the vertebrae.
- Pedicle screw thread with decreasing thread depth in connection with dense bone and increasing thread depth in connection with sponge bone.
- Rod with high mechanical strength.
- Pedicle screws available in different diameters and lengths are suitable for stabilizing cervical vertebrae.
- Anodizing (oxidation) of screw heads in different colors for different diameters.
3-3- Surgical Method
The basic stages of posterior cervical fusion include the following:
- The procedure is performed in the operating room and the patient under general anesthesia.
- The patient’s face is placed on the operating table.
- A small incision is made in the middle of the neck at the back.
- The muscles and soft tissues are then pushed back to reach the spine.
- X-ray image is used to determine the affected intervertebral disc.
- The laminar surfaces of each bead are shaved to combine. These results in blood-soaked conditions help to heal quickly on the combined bones.
- In addition, a small strip of pelvis taken from the pelvis is placed on the spine, which helps in fusion of the bones.
- Confirmation X-rat can be taken to confirm correct implant placement.
- Finally, the pulled muscles and soft tissues are pulled back to their normal position and the wound is sutured.
3-4-Postoperative Care
Patients may be discharged from the hospital within one week of surgery. Neck braces are recommended for several months. However, this restriction may not be necessary if the vertebrae are fixed with metal plates during PCF surgery. Patients have started a liquid diet that is gradually changing to solid food. Depends on their recovery. Physiotherapy is recommended after 4-6 weeks of surgery. Physiotherapy helps patients begin their routine activities without putting too much pressure on the neck. Rest is suggested as an aid to the treatment of stagnation.
4- Sample of Placed Implants
Figure 2: MRI Image of the Patient After Implant Placement
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