Medical Worker

An analysis of key publications devoted to transpedicular fixation of the cervical spine has been carried out. The installation of transpedicular screws in the cervical spine is a technically challenging procedure, the frequency of screw deviation from the optimal trajectory remains high even with the use of modern intraoperative technologies, and there is a risk of serious life-threatening complications. The use of this technique allows achieving reliable three-column stabilization of the cervical spine through only posterior approach, which is the preferred or only possible option for a limited group of patients. According to literature data, screw displacement beyond the pedicle borders occurs, on average, in 15–20 % of cases, while clinically significant complications occur in 4–5 % of cases. Among 32 operated patients, one severe neurologic complication caused by vertebral artery compression by the screw was noted. Of the 79 installed screws, 18 (22.79 %) cases of lateral pedicle wall perforation were observed. There were no cases of the fixator instability, infection and radiculopathy due to compression by the screw.