Posterior Release, Reduction, and Intra-Articular Fusion for Irreducible Type III Atlantoaxial Rotary Fixation

For irreducible atlantoaxial rotary fixation (AARF), anterior or posterior release was often needed before posterior reduction and fusion. Anterior atlantoaxial joint release has potential complications such as retropharyngeal abscess, persistent hoarseness, and infection. This study aims to assess the efficacy of posterior release, reduction, and intra-articular fusion without resecting the C2 nerve root on irreducible type III AARF.