Experience with early anterior operation in acute injuries of the cervical spine.

Of 101 patients with acute injury to the cervical spine below the level of the axis, 74 were selected for anterior operation to ensure stability and comfort and to decompress the neural elements when indicated. Forty-six of the patients underwent a Cloward fusion at the level of the injury. Twenty-eight were treated by bar graft fusion. The indications for these procedures and the techniques involved are outlined. A successful operative result was achieved primarily in 65 of the 74 patients and eventually in 73 patients. The management mortality for patients treated by anterior operation was 2-7 per cent. The advantages of these procedures are the achievement of comfort, the facilitation of early rehabilitation, the maintenance of bony alignment and the preservation and maximal recovery of neurological function.