Background Context: Occipitocervical stabilization and fusion surgeries are the surgical treatment options for craniovertebral junction instability. Rigid occipitocervical fixation techniques can cause severe
movement restrictions and complications. In the literature, the motion-preserving occipitocervical fixation system has not yet been accomplished. Purpose: To improve functional outcomes by providing biomechanical stability with an occipitocervical dynamic rod in craniovertebral junction instability. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate occipitocervical dynamic rod biomechanical eligibility. Study Design: A biomechanical comparison study. Methods: Using the same vertebrectomy model, the designed dynamic and rigid rods were compared from a biomechanical perspective. Axial compression, dynamic, and torsion tests were performed for biomechanical comparison with these models. Results: The test results also indicated that under the yield load and under static loading the new system was somewhat similar to the old one but was less stiff by comparison. The old system was found to be greatly superior to the new system especially when subjected to torsional loads. However, these torsion test results resulted from the dynamic properties of the rod system as it was expected before testing. The following results depict that our dynamic rod system has dynamic characteristics under the test conditions that are useful under the test conditions. Conclusion: The novel dynamic rod that stabilizes the craniovertebral junction within the normal anatomical and biomechanical physiological limits and provides regional mobility is biomechanically successful. However, these tests must be supported by controlled human studies; but this study provides the first basis for the use of dynamic rods in craniovertebral region surgeries. Clinical Significance: The dynamic rod will improve functional results and quality of life in the patients who require occipitocervical fixation surgery compared to the standard rod.