OBJECTIVE: Present the long term clinical and radiological results in C1-C2 transarticular screws technique with posterior wiring in RA patients and presenting the current literature review. METHODS: From 2002 to 2006, eleven patients (9 women and 2 men) with RA and C1-C2 instability underwent C1-C2 arthrodesis with transarticular screws plus posterior wiring and autologous iliac crest bone graft. A retrospective chart and radiographic review was performed. Ranawat Index was recorded in pre- and post-operative, as well as anterior atlantodental interval (AADI), operating time, days of hospitalization and complications. The mean follow up (FU) was 34 months. RESULTS: All patients presented improved Ranawat Index at follow up. Average pre-operative AADI was 11,9mm (SD ± 2,57), range 7 to 16. Average post-operative AADI was 3mm (SD ± 1.20), range 2 to 6. The average operating time was 94 minutes and the average days of hospitalization was 7 days. No intra-operative complications were found. Post-operative seroma was found in one case and surgical drainage was required. All patients achieved solid fusion at 14 weeks in average. CONCLUSIONS: C1-C2 arthrodesis with transarticular screws plus posterior wiring and autologous bone graft is a good alternative for atlantoaxial instability due RA, with good clinical and radiographic outcomes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis; Bone screws; Arthrodesis
