Comparative Stability of Anterior or Posterior Cervical Spine Fixation—in vitro Investigation

Abstract

The stability of a cervical spine motion segment is guaranteed by intact disco-ligamentous structures [3]. If these have been destroyed, only bony fusion of the affected unit can prevent impending instability or ensure longterm stability. Operative treatment involves the application of anterior and posterior spondylodesis procedures to obtain immobilization of the motion segment. However, controversy still exists concerning the primary stability of these procedures [1]. The purpose of this comparative experimental study is, therefore, to examine in vitro the primary stabilizing effect of posterior and anterior internal fixation procedures under differing conditions of instability