A biomechanical study of a cervical spine stabilization device

The biomechanical properties of surgically destabilized cervical spine motion segments are evaluated. The segments were fixed with spinal fixation plates and tested. The Roy-Camille spinal fixation plates were utilized as the stabilizing device. Results are compared with intact motion segments. It is shown that segments C3-4 and C4-5, when severely destabilized by a surgically created defect, can effectively be restabilized through proper application of Roy-Camille spinal fixation plates. In flexion/extension and torsion the passive range of motion is virtually eliminated in the plated motion segments. Tests to failure of these severely destabilized, plated spines demonstrate failure by screw pull-out.<>