Enhancing C2 pedicle screw placement in Hangman’s fractures: a comparative study of navigation and 3D printed guidance techniques

The use of 3D-printed patient-specific templates in upper cervical spine surgery for Hangman's fractures, especially in the presence of HRVA, is effective and safe. It offers comparable accuracy to navigation-assisted surgery while reducing operative time and blood loss. This approach may be particularly beneficial in minimizing the risk of vertebral artery injury and optimizing surgical outcomes. Compared to navigation technology, it can effectively improve the accuracy of screw placement in extremely unstable fractures.