This is a prospective, randomized multi-centre trial designed to compare two widely accepted methods used to treat acute Type II odontoid fractures; external halo vest immobilization versus anterior odontoid screw fixation. Type II odontoid fractures are a frequent type of cervical spine injury in all age groups. Spinal cord injury is not an uncommon consequence of failed treatment, leading to catastrophic consequences. Primary screw fixation may provide significantly higher fusions rates avoiding adverse outcome, compared to external bracing. The purpose of this study is to objectively analyze both clinical and radiographic outcomes following acute type II odontoid fracture, comparing primary anterior screw fixation against halo vest immobilization.

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R. J. Hurlbert, MD, Ph.D., FRCSC
R. W. Hu, MD, FRCSC
Dept. of Surgery, Dept. of Clinical Neurosciences
Foothills Medical Centre
1403 - 29th St., N.W.
Calgary, AB., T2N 2T9
Phone (403) 283-4449

Andrea Magwood, RN, Research Assistant
University of Calgary Spine Program
Clinical Neurosciences, U.C.M.C., Area 3
3350 Hospital Dr., N.W.
Calgary, AB., T2N 4N1
Phone (403) 944-4334
Fax (403) 283-5559
email magwood@ucalgary.ca

Dalhousie University
H. Hugenholtz, MD, FRCSC

University of Ottawa
Eric Belanger, MD, FRCSC

McMaster University
Drew A. Bednar, MD, FRCSC

Wake Forest University
Joseph Alexander, MD, FACS

University of Western Ontario
Stewart Bailey, MD, FRCSC

University of Manitoba
Derek Fewer, MD, FRCSC

University of Alberta
Richard Fox, MD, FRCSC

University of Kansas Medical Center
Dr. Paul Arnold, MD, FACS