ADJUSTABLE OCCIPITAL PLATE (TT)
An adjustable occipital plate is an orthopedic implant used in occipitocervical fusion surgeries to stabilize and fuse the upper cervical spine (the junction between the skull and the spine). Here's an overview of its specifications and uses:
Specification
- Material: Adjustable occipital plates are typically made from medical-grade titanium or titanium alloy. This material is chosen for its biocompatibility, strength, and durability. It ensures compatibility with bone tissue and provides long-term stability within the spinal construct.
- Design: Adjustable occipital plates have a plate-like structure designed to be anchored to the occipital bone (at the base of the skull). The plate may have multiple screw holes and slots to accommodate screws of varying sizes and trajectories, allowing for flexibility in fixation and alignment.
- Adjustability: The key feature of adjustable occipital plates is their ability to adjust the angle or position of the plate relative to the skull. This adjustability allows surgeons to customize the plate placement to match the patient's anatomy and optimize surgical outcomes.
- Locking Mechanism: Adjustable occipital plates typically have a locking mechanism that secures the plate in the desired position once adjusted. This locking mechanism may include set screws, locking caps, or compression mechanisms to ensure stability and prevent movement of the plate.
- Size: Adjustable occipital plates come in various sizes to accommodate different patient anatomies and surgical requirements. The size of the plate may be selected based on factors such as the size of the occipital bone and the extent of the surgical approach.
Uses
- Occipitocervical Fusion: Adjustable occipital plates are primarily used in occipitocervical fusion surgeries to stabilize and fuse the upper cervical spine. They provide a stable anchor point for spinal instrumentation and facilitate the fusion of the occiput to the upper cervical vertebrae (C1-C2).
- Correction of Spinal Deformities: These plates may be used in the correction of spinal deformities such as basilar invagination, craniovertebral junction anomalies, or occipitocervical instability. By providing stable fixation and alignment, adjustable occipital plates help to realign the spine and improve spinal stability.
- Trauma Surgery: Adjustable occipital plates can be employed in the treatment of traumatic injuries to the occipitocervical junction, such as fractures or dislocations. They provide additional stability and support to the injured spinal segments, aiding in fracture reduction and promoting healing.
- Revision Surgery: These plates may be used in revision occipitocervical surgeries to augment or replace existing instrumentation. They 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, adjustable occipital plates with a low-profile design are used to minimize tissue disruption and facilitate less invasive approaches. They allow for stabilization of the spinal instrumentation system while preserving adjacent anatomical structures.
In summary, adjustable occipital plates are essential components in occipitocervical fusion surgeries, providing stability, flexibility, and adjustability to achieve optimal surgical outcomes. They are utilized by trained spinal surgeons following proper surgical techniques and patient-specific considerations to achieve successful fusion and stabilization of the upper cervical spine.