Morphometric analyses of the cervical superior facets and implications for facet dislocation

The articular facets of the cervical spine have been well addressed; however, little information is available on the relationship of the superior facets of the cervical spine to traumatic dislocation in the literature. Morphometric analyses of the superior facets of 30 dried cervical spines from C3 to C7 were performed to determine any morphological differences. The angle of the superior facet with respect to the transverse plane was also measured on computed tomography (CT) scans of 30 patients having neck injury without fracture/dislocation. The vertical and surface lengths of the superior facet were significantly lower (P < 0.01) at C6–C7 levels than at C3–5 levels. The anteroposterior diameter of the superior facet was smaller (P < 0.05) at C6 and C7 levels compared to C3–5 levels. Although the superior facet joint surface is in a more coronal orientation in lower cervical vertebrae, the inclination of the superior facet is more horizontal relative to the transverse plane when measured in vivo. A combination of lower height, smaller anteroposterior diameter of the superior facet, and a more horizontally oriented superior facet at C6 and C7 levels in vivo may explain the predilection of translation relative to one another in the lower cervical spine

Anatomical considerations of the internal iliac artery in association with the ilioinguinal approach for anterior acetabular fracture fixation

INTRODUCTION: Vascular injury may be encountered during an anterior approach to the pelvis or acetabulum-be it due to hematoma decompression, clot dislodgement during fracture manipulation, or iatrogenic. This can be associated with significant bleeding, hemodynamic instability, and subsequent morbidity. If the exact source of bleeding cannot be easily identified, compression of the internal iliac artery may be a lifesaving procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We describe an extension of the lateral window of the ilioinguinal (or Olerud) approach elaborated on cadavers. RESULTS: The approach allows emergent access the internal iliac artery and intraoperative cross-clamping of the internal iliac vessels to control bleeding. CONCLUSION: The approach allows rapid access to the internal iliac artery. The surgeon should be familiar, however, with the surgical anatomy of this region to avoid potential injury to the ureter, peritoneum, lymphatics, and sympathetic nerves overlying the vessels when using the approach described