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Abstract

Knowledge of normal biomechanics of the cervical spine is very important as it can be modified by various pathological situations. The changes that occur during injury and/or in consequence with other pathological conditions or surgical procedures can substantially influence the stability of this most important spinal joint-ligamentous complex. The motion of AO-AA joint complex is always coupled. UCS is responsible for 60% of rotation and 40% flexion and extension of the whole cervical spine. Whatever parameter measured beyond the physiological limits has to be considered as mechanical instability. Performing complex reconstruction of UCS the load distribution typical for this spine region has to be respected and the non-affected segments spared to preserve as much movement as possible.

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Suchomel, P., Buchvald, P. (2011). Biomechanical Remarks. In: Reconstruction of Upper Cervical Spine and Craniovertebral Junction. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-13158-5_2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-13158-5_2

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