3.5MM ROD FOR OCCIPITAL POLY AXIAL SCREW
A 3.5mm rod for occipital polyaxial screws is a specific component used in posterior cervical spine surgeries, particularly in occipitocervical fixation procedures. Here's an overview of its specifications and uses:
Specification
- Material: The rod is typically made from medical-grade titanium or titanium alloy, chosen for its biocompatibility, strength, and durability. This material ensures compatibility with bone tissue and long-term stability within the spinal construct.
- Diameter: The 3.5mm diameter of the rod is a standardized size suitable for occipitocervical fixation procedures. This diameter provides adequate strength and stability while minimizing tissue disruption during surgery.
- Length: The length of the rod may vary depending on the specific surgical technique and the number of spinal levels being instrumented. Surgeons typically select rods of appropriate length to span the occiput to the upper cervical spine and achieve adequate fixation.
- Shape: The rod may have different shapes, including straight rods or pre-bent rods. Pre-bent rods are shaped to match the natural curvature of the cervical spine or to correct deformities, facilitating optimal alignment and stabilization of the spinal segments.
- Surface Texture: The surface of the rod may be textured or coated to enhance grip and stability within the polyaxial screws. Textured surfaces or coatings can help prevent loosening or migration of the rod within the screw heads, ensuring long-term stability of the spinal construct.
Uses
- Occipitocervical Fusion: The 3.5mm rod for occipital polyaxial screws is primarily used in occipitocervical fusion surgeries to provide stabilization and instrumentation of the upper cervical spine. It serves as a rigid framework to support the occiput and upper cervical vertebrae, promoting fusion of the adjacent segments.
- Trauma Surgery: This rod can be employed in the treatment of traumatic injuries to the occipitocervical junction, such as fractures or dislocations. It provides additional stability and support to the injured spinal segments, aiding in fracture reduction and promoting healing.
- Revision Surgery: The rod may be used in revision occipitocervical surgeries to augment or replace existing instrumentation. It can provide additional stability and support in cases where previous instrumentation has failed or requires modification.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: In minimally invasive occipitocervical fusion surgeries, the 3.5mm rod with a low-profile design is used to minimize tissue disruption and facilitate less invasive approaches. It allows for stabilization of the spinal instrumentation system while preserving adjacent anatomical structures.
In summary, the 3.5mm rod for occipital polyaxial screws is a critical component in occipitocervical fusion surgeries, providing stability and support to the upper cervical spine. It is utilized by trained spinal surgeons following proper surgical techniques and patient-specific considerations to achieve successful surgical outcomes.