C2 Anatomy and Dimensions Relative to Translaminar Screw Placement in an Asian Population

Abstract

A large percentages of C2 laminae are of sufficient size to safely accommodate a bicortical 3.5-mm diameter screw. The thickness of the lamina and the height of the spinous process are the 2 limiting factors for safe translaminar screws placement. Using a bicortical technique confirms the position of the screw and thereby helps to decrease the risk of neurologic injury from screw penetration of the inner cortex of the lamina.