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Background: Posterior instrumentation techniques are commonly employed for cervicothoracic fixation. The pedicles of the upper thoracic vertebrae can typically accommodate larger diameter screws than the subaxial cervical vertebrae. In many construct systems, this requires the use of a tapered rod, which can be technically challenging to place., Method: Using a three-dimensionally printed biomimetic spine simulator, we illustrate the stepwise process of instrumentation and tapered rod placement across the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ)., Conclusion: Tapered rod systems can augment the biomechanical stability of cervicothoracic constructs. Ease of rod placement across the CTJ hinges upon a systematic method of instrumentation.

Background: Cervical radiculopathy from uncovertebral joint hypertrophy and foraminal stenosis is a common indication for anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF). Often, the uncinate hypertrophy extends lateral to the foramen and impinges on the nerve close to the vertebral artery as it travels in between the transverse foramina., Method: Using an injected cadaveric specimen to highlight the vital neurovascular and bony structures pertinent to this procedure, we demonstrate the technical details of complete uncinatectomy for cervical foraminal stenosis., Conclusion: Total uncinatectomy is a useful adjunct during ACDF for complete foraminal decompression in cases of uncovertebral joint hypertrophy.