Motion-preserving reduction and fixation of C1 Jefferson fracture using a C1 lateral mass screw construct

The treatment of C1 Jefferson fractures is controversial. Non-surgical treatment with halo fixation always bears the risk of insufficient healing with further instability and increasing neck pain. However, a C1–2 fusion can markedly decrease the rotatory motion of the neck. The aim of this report is to describe a new treatment for C1 Jefferson fractures. We used open reduction and C1 fixation using a bilateral C1 lateral mass screw construct. The screws were connected with a rod and nuts to reduce lateral spread of the lateral masses. This mehod is an alternative surgical option for C1 Jefferson fractures in select patients and can maintain important C1–2 joint motion.