Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with plate versus posterior screw fixation after traumatic subaxial fractures in octogenarians: complications and outcomes with a 2-year follow-up - Summary - MDSpire

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with plate versus posterior screw fixation after traumatic subaxial fractures in octogenarians: complications and outcomes with a 2-year follow-up

  • By

  • Pavlina Lenga

  • Gelo Gülec

  • Karl Kiening

  • Andreas W. Unterberg

  • Basem Ishak

  • March 30, 2023

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To investigate and compare clinical outcomes and mortality rates of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with anterior plating versus posterior fixation in octogenarians with subaxial fractures, emphasizing the differences in surgical approaches.

Key Findings:
  • A total of 28 patients aged 80 years and older were included in the study.
  • Surgical decision-making involved an interdisciplinary team and was based on the Subaxial Injury Classification (SLIC) system, underscoring the collaborative approach to patient care.
  • No patients over 90 years underwent surgical intervention.
Interpretation:

The study highlights the complexities and considerations in managing subaxial fractures in octogenarians, emphasizing the need for tailored surgical approaches based on individual patient conditions.

Limitations:
  • Retrospective design may introduce selection bias and limit the ability to draw causal conclusions.
  • Small sample size limits generalizability of findings.
  • Lack of long-term follow-up data beyond two years.
Conclusion:

Further research is needed to establish definitive guidelines for surgical management of subaxial fractures in the elderly, particularly octogenarians, given their unique clinical challenges and high morbidity and mortality risks.

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