Can C1 lateral mass and C3 pedicle screw fixation be used as an option for atlantoaxial reduction and stabilization in Klippel-Feil patients? A study of its morphological feasibility, technical nuances, and clinical efficiency

In Klippel-Feil patients with atlantoaxial dislocation, narrow C2 pedicles are often encountered preventing pedicle screw placement. Alternative techniques, including translaminar screws, pars screws, and inferior process screws could not achieve 3-column rigid fixation, and have shown inferior biomechanical stability. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of C3 pedicle screws (C3PSs) as an option for atlantoaxial stabilization in Klippel-Feil patients, and to introduce a freehand technique, the “medial sliding technique,” for safe and accurate C3PS insertion. Thirty-seven Klippel-Feil patients with congenital C2–3 fusion who have received atlantoaxial fixation were reviewed. Preoperative CT and CT angiography were acquired to evaluate the feasibility of C3PS placement. C1 lateral mass and C3PS constructs were used for atlantoaxial stabilization. The “medial sliding technique” was introduced to facilitate C3PS insertion. Clinical outcomes and complications were evaluated, and screw accuracy was graded on postoperative CT scans. Morphological measurements showed that more than 80% C3 pedicles could accommodate a 3.5-mm screw. Fifty-eight C3PSs were placed in 33/37 patients using the medial sliding technique. Overall, 96.7% screws were considered safe and there was no related neurovascular complications; 27/33 patients exhibited neurological improvement and 30/33 patients had a solid bone fusion at an average 19.3-month follow-up. Therefore, the C3PS was a feasible option for atlantoaxial fixation in Klippel-Feil patients. The clinically efficiency of C3PS was satisfied with high fusion rates and low complications. The medial sliding technique we used could facilitate safe and accurate placement of C3PSs in Klippel-Feil patients with fused C2–3 vertebra.