Abstract

The Hartshill system is a modification of the Luque system for posterior segmental wiring of the spine and has for five years been our routine means of posterior spinal fixation throughout the spine from skull to sacrum and for all varieties of spinal disorders. This paper presents our experience with the use of the Hartshill system in the cervical spine. There have been 34 cases with a minimum two year follow-up (trauma 11, rheumatoid 8, facet osteoarthritis 7, tumor 5, congenital 2 and myelopathy 1). There has been only one serious complication. The system is essentially simple and inexpensive but, nonetheless, attention to detail in technique is important and this will be emphasized. Recent modifications of the Hartshill system for the cervical spine by Ransford and Fidler will be discussed. With proper attention to detail the Hartshill system provides a secure adaptable posterior fixation system that can be used throughout the cervical spine.