Clinical Significance and Anatomical Study on C_2 Pedicle

Objective:To provide an anatomical evidence for C2 pedicle fixation with screw.Methods:Fifteen dry specimens of vertebra dentata were utilized to observe the morphologic features of C2 pedicle and adjacent relationship between cervical foramen and C2 pedicle, then measure the height and width of C2 pedicle, and angels which formed by the axial ray of C2 pedicle and horizontal plane and sagittal plane, respectively.Results:The root of arch of vertebra dentate, which was covered by isthmus and partial processus articularis superior, comprised the anterointernal and posteroexternal parts, the former located under the medial part of superior articular process was linked with vertebral body. The latter was under the isthmic portion and connected the inferior articular process. There was anatomic variation in cervical foramen, especially in left hand side of them. The superior width, inferior width, height of C2 pedicle and its respective obliquities on horizontal plane and sagittal plane were (7.90±1.41)mm, (4.90±0.82)mm, (6.70±0.90)mm, (32.33±3.45 )° and (24.07±5.30)°,respectively.Conclusions:Ninety percentage of persons suits for pedicle fixation with screw. Comprehending the normal anatomic parameters of C2 pedicle and relationship between the pedicle and transverse foramen is very important to C2 pedicle fixation.