Odontoid screw placement using Isocentric 3-dimensional C-arm fluoroscopy

We describe the use of isocentric 3-dimensional fluoroscopy to place odontoid screws in 9 patients. We wanted to show the benefits of using isocentric 3-dimensional fluroscopy in odontoid screw placement. Odontoid screw fixation for treatment of type II odontoid fractures has gained popularity since its introduction in the early 1980s. During the last several years, a multitude of new techniques have improved the ease of odontoid screw placement, including biplanar fluoroscopy, cannulated screw systems, and beveled bedside-fixed retractor systems. The use of isocentric C-arm fluoroscopy can improve the ease and facilitate placement of odontoid screws. Nine patients, ranging in ages from 30 to 89 years, presented with type II odontoid fractures. All fractures were either nondisplaced or minimally displaced (