OCCIPITAL CERVICAL MIDLINE FIXATION PLATE
An occipital cervical midline fixation plate is a specialized orthopedic implant used in occipitocervical fusion surgeries to stabilize and fuse the upper cervical spine, particularly at the occipitocervical junction (the connection between the base of the skull and the upper cervical vertebrae). Here's an overview of its specifications and uses:
Specification
- Material: Occipital cervical midline fixation plates are typically made from medical-grade titanium or titanium alloy. This material is chosen for its biocompatibility, strength, and durability, ensuring compatibility with bone tissue and long-term stability within the spinal construct.
- Design: The design of occipital cervical midline fixation plates features a plate-like structure with multiple screw holes along a midline axis. These plates are specifically designed to be anchored to the occipital bone (at the base of the skull) and extend along the midline of the cervical spine to provide stable fixation and alignment.
- Plate Profile: The profile of the plate is typically low-profile to minimize soft tissue irritation and reduce the risk of post-operative complications. This is particularly important in minimally invasive or less invasive surgical approaches.
- Screw Holes: The plate has multiple screw holes along its length, allowing for the attachment of screws to secure the plate to the occiput and upper cervical vertebrae. The screw holes are strategically placed to provide optimal fixation and stability.
- Size: Occipital cervical midline fixation 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, the extent of the surgical approach, and the number of levels being fused.
Uses
- Occipitocervical Fusion: Occipital cervical midline fixation 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, occipital cervical midline fixation plates help to realign the spine and improve spinal stability.
- Trauma Surgery: Occipital cervical midline fixation 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, occipital cervical midline fixation 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, occipital cervical midline fixation plates are essential components in occipitocervical fusion surgeries, providing stability, alignment, and fusion across the occipitocervical junction. 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.