Efficacy and complications of the use of Gardner-Wells Tongs: a systematic review

Abstract

We conducted a thorough review of the literature to examine the risks and complications associated with the use of Gardner-Wells Tongs (GWT). Twenty-three articles were included in this review for final analysis. One article reported a 37.5% (6/16) incidence rate of minor complications with the usage of GWTs, which included pin loosening, asymmetrical pin positioning, and superficial infections. Various cases reported more serious yet rare complications, including perforation of the skull, brain abscesses, and neurovascular damage. Overall, the complication rate is low, and often associated with only minor and transient complications, which can be easily managed. Therefore, we conclude that GWT are safe and effective, with only rare, more serious complications reported in the literature.

Atlantoaxial dislocation with associated type II odontoid fracture in adolescent with cervical spondylitis tuberculosis: A case report

“…In this study, we applied Garden-Well tongs to reduce dislocation. The application of Garden-Well tongs as a treatment for cervical spine injury has been documented in a study by Saleh et al with a low rate of complications such as pin loosening, the asymmetrical position of the pin, and superficial infection [14] . However, the lower pull-out strength of tongs and progressive decrease of the pull-out strength of tongs made halo traction more preferred.…”

Three-stage correction of severe idiopathic scoliosis with limited skeletal traction during a humanitarian surgical mission: illustrative case

“…24 A 2018 systematic review concluded that GWTs are a safe form of skeletal traction with a low rate of complications, most of which are minor, transient, and can be easily managed. 25 A recent 2022 meta-analysis showed that neurological complications were observed in approximately 1.5% of patients undergoing HGT. 4 These complications mainly consisted of transient paresthesia, nystagmus, and dizziness.…”

Management of Intra Operative Over- Reduction of Traumatic AAD with Fracture of C1-C2 Vertebrae: Case Report & Review of Literature

“…Cervical traction stabilizes the head in an optimally reduced extension position and prevents any rotation. Elevation of the head end of the table, which acts as counter traction, helps to reduce venous engorgement in the operative field [9]. Complications of Cervical Traction include bleeding from the temporal artery, pressure sore on the skull (hence a downwards vector to rope is to be avoided), sepsis-from the skin to subdural abscess, Worsening neurological status, squint from 6th cranial nerve fallout [10].…”