Posterior Lateral Mass Plate Fixation of the Cervical Spine

ABSTRACT: Historically, posterior fixation and fusion have been the most popular method of  internally stabilizing the cervical spine after injury. Although techniques such as wiring are  effective for most injuries, these methods are inadequate in the absence of intact posterior  elements or extension and rotation injuries. We review the indications and techniques for  posterolateral mass plate fixation that are useful in these difficult fractures.