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De Iure F, Donthineni R, Boriani S. Outcomes of C1 and C2 posterior screw fixation for upper cervical spine fusion. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2009; 18 Suppl 1:2-6. [PMID: 19387696 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-009-0981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
To achieve stable fixation of the upper cervical spine in posterior fusions, the occiput is often included. With the newer techniques, excluding fixation to the occiput will retain the occiput-cervical motion, while still allowing a stable fixation. Harms's technique has been adapted at our institution and its effectiveness for indications such as C2 complex fractures and tumors using C1 or C2 as endpoints of a posterior fixation are reviewed. Fourteen cases were identified, consisting of one os odontoideum; four acute fractures and four non-unions of the odontoid; three tumors and two complex fractures of C2 vertebral body, and one C2-C3 post-traumatic instability. One misplaced screw without clinical consequences was the only complication recorded. Screw loosening or migration was not observed at follow-up, showing a stable fixation.
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Furtado SV, Anantharam BA, Reddy K, Hegde AS. Repair of Chiari III malformation using cranioplasty and an occipital rotation flap: technical note and review of literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 72:414-7; discussion 417. [PMID: 19147197 DOI: 10.1016/j.surneu.2008.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2008] [Accepted: 09/06/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chiari III malformation (CM3) is rare among Chiari malformations (I-IV). Its definition has been expanded to include caudal medullary displacement and hindbrain herniation into encephaloceles in lower occipital and high cervical regions. Prognosis is recorded as dismal, with respect to survival and functional outcome. METHODS We describe the presentation, radiologic evaluation, and repair of this malformation using methyl-methacrylate cranioplasty and an occipital scalp rotation flap for closure. Outcome after surgery is addressed. RESULTS Adequate closure of the defect and protection of underlying structures was achieved without undue stress at incision site. CONCLUSIONS This method of closure can be considered in cases of large occipital and cervical encephaloceles with poor skin cover and added osseous anomalies around the foramen magnum.
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D'Anastasio R. Perimortem weapon trauma in an adult male skeleton from the Italic necropolis of Opi Val Fondillo (VI-V century BC; Central Italy). ANTHROPOLOGISCHER ANZEIGER; BERICHT UBER DIE BIOLOGISCH-ANTHROPOLOGISCHE LITERATUR 2008; 66:385-394. [PMID: 19216178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The author describes weapon traumatic lesions in an adult male skeleton, that was excavated in the Italic necropolis of Opi Val Fondillo, Central Italy. The preservation of the skeleton is very good. The skull shows a linear lesion across the diploE of the right parietal and occipital bones; the edge of the traumatic lesion is smooth and perpendicular to the bone surface. The injury was probably inflicted with a sharp-edged weapon and the violence of the stroke caused the detachment of bone fragments and fractures that radiate from the point of impact. A sharp-edged linear traumatic lesion, probably inflicted with a blade, is visible on the ventral surface of the vertebral bodies of atlas and axis; the blade detached the right transverse process of the atlas and penetrated in the vertebral body of the axis. Another sharp-edged linear traumatic injury is observed on the anterior surface of the body of thoracic vertebrae. There are no traumatic lesions of the ribs and the last injury was probably inflected down with a blade, while the body lying on the ground. The posterior surface of the diaphysis of the right femur shows an incomplete perimortem fracture, probably due to a compression down upon. Probably the adult male was killed during a fight and enemy had done with him, while he was lying on the ground holding fast his legs strongly. A comparison is made between the lesions and the modality of combat as well as the type of the weapons used by the Samnitic warriors.
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Sethi P, Batra A, Sethi N, Torgovnick J, Arsura E. Head-supporting sign during reclining: an indication of craniovertebral junction involvement. Neurol Neurochir Pol 2008; 42:560-563. [PMID: 19235111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The craniovertebral (CV) junction can be involved in many diseases, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, as well as destructive bone pathologies such as tumour and tuberculosis (craniovertebral Pott's disease). While some of these patients present acutely with neck pain and neurological deficits, in others the signs and symptoms may be more subtle. Two patients with CV junction involvement are described. One patient suffered from fracture of the anterior arch of atlas after being involved in a motor vehicle accident and the other had craniovertebral Pott's disease. A detailed history and clinical examination was carried out paying special attention to the situation when patients attempted to recline or while getting up from a reclining position. Patients were further investigated with imaging studies which focused on the CV junction. It was noted that patients with CV junction involvement frequently support their head while attempting to recline or when getting up from a reclining posture. This head supporting sign may be the sole neurological finding in some patients with involvement of the CV junction.
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Vaz A, Veiga C, Estanqueiro P, Salgado M. Peritonitis and cervical arthritis as presenting manifestations of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2008; 26:974. [PMID: 19032844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
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Konya D, Ozgen S, Gerçek A, Celebiler O, Pamir MN. Transmandibular approach for upper cervical pathologies: report of 2 cases and review of the literature. Turk Neurosurg 2008; 18:271-275. [PMID: 18814117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In routine surgical practice, anterior approaches are not often used to treat upper cervical pathologies. Such lesions can be difficult to access surgically. This article describes 2 cases in which the transmandibular approach was used to address anterior upper cervical pathology. One case was a chordoma invading the C2-C3 vertebrae and the other case was atlanto-axial instability. Neurological examination revealed myelopathy in both cases. Each patient had already undergone occipito-cervical fusion at a different center and, thus, had limited neck extension and mouth-opening ability. In the first case, the tumor was totally excised. In the second, the dens was removed. We believe that the transmandibular approach is the best option for patients with limited neck mobility and restricted mouth-opening ability.
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Storch MJ, Hubbe U, Glocker FX. Cervical myelopathy caused by soft-tissue mass in diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2007; 17 Suppl 2:S243-7. [PMID: 17922151 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-007-0508-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2007] [Revised: 07/11/2007] [Accepted: 09/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A rare case of cervical spinal cord compression in diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH or Forestier's Disease) caused by a craniocervical mass of soft-tissue is reported. The objective is to describe an uncommon mechanism of spinal cord compression in DISH. Three weeks after a cardiac infarction a 69-year-old man slowly developed spastic tetraparesis. Magnetic resonance tomography showed a craniocervical tumor compressing the spinal cord and a massive DISH of the cervical spine. An extended mass of yellowish amorphous material was removed from between the dura, the posterior odontoid process and the posterior aspect of vertebral body C2 reaching to the upper part of C3.The histologic appearance indicated connective tissue and cell-degenerated cartilaginous tissue. There was no inflammatory component and no evidence of neoplasia. No ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) was found. After removal and craniocervical stabilization the patient's neurologic function improved remarkably. The increase of mechanical stress on the atlantoaxial segment and enhanced proliferation reaction of the connective tissue in DISH are suggested as the underlying pathomechanisms in the formation of this soft-tissue mass.
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Mingsheng T, Huimin W, Xin J, Ping Y, Hongyu W, Feng Y, Wu W, Guangbo Z. Screw fixation via diploic bone paralleling to occiput table: anatomical analysis of a new technique and report of 11 cases. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2007; 16:2225-31. [PMID: 17899218 PMCID: PMC2140140 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-007-0500-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2006] [Revised: 08/27/2007] [Accepted: 09/03/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Several types of posterior approaches have been adopted for occipitocervical fusion. Prior to this study, Foerater et al. in 1927 used a fibular strut graft in the site between the occiput and the lower cervical spine to achieve fusion. Since then, various techniques including wrings, Hartshill loop, AO reconstructive plate, and AXIS occipital plate were described and used widely. As far as we know, all these techniques involve the screw placement vertical to the diploic bone; however none has ever addressed the feasibility of screw placement in occiput parallelling to the diploic bone. In our study, 30 dry specimens of human occiputs were measured manually using vernier calipers and protractors. The intradiploic screw was first supposed to be inserted inferiorly to the superior nuchal line (SNL) prominence. The entry point located at the superior edge of the SNL prominence. Afterward, the measurements of extracranial occiput in SNL area on midline and bilateral 15 mm to the midline saggital-cutting planes of the occiput were conducted. The thickness of the occipital bone at the location of SNL prominence, the entry point, the exit point and the screw orientation were measured, respectively. Afterward, 11 patients with craniocervical malformation were treated surgically using this alternative and their X-ray radiographs and CT scans were evaluated postoperatively. The data showed that the occipital at the site of SNL prominence was the thickest. The thickest point was external occipital protuberance (EOP), which was up to 14 mm. The thickness decreased gradually from the site of SNL to the superior border of surgical decompressed area. The actual length of screw channel was about 26 mm. The mean thickness for safe screw insertion ranged from 5.73 to 14.14 mm. A total of 22 intraocciput screws parallel to diploic bone were placed precisely, without injury to the cerebral and inner occipital venous sinus. The results confirm that occiput is available for holding intraocciput screw paralleling to diploic bone.
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Abstract
Cervical column morphology was examined in 41 adult patients with a skeletal deep bite, 23 females aged 22-42 years (mean 27.9) and 18 males aged 21-44 years (mean 30.8) and compared with the cervical column morphology in an adult control group consisting of 21 subjects, 15 females, aged 23-40 years (mean 29.2 years) and six males aged 25-44 years (mean 32.8 years) with neutral occlusion and normal craniofacial morphology. None of the patients or control subjects had received orthodontic treatment. For each individual, a visual assessment of the cervical column and measurements of the cranial base angle, vertical craniofacial dimensions, and morphology of the mandible were performed on a profile radiograph. In the deep bite group, 41.5 per cent had fusion of the cervical vertebrae and 9.8 per cent posterior arch deficiency. The fusion always occurred between C2 and C3. No statistically significant gender differences were found in the occurrence of morphological characteristics of the cervical column (females 43.5 per cent, males 38.9 per cent). Morphological deviations of the cervical column occurred significantly more often in the deep bite group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that the vertical jaw relationship (P < 0.05), overbite (P < 0.001), and upper incisor inclination (P < 0.01) were significantly correlated with fusion of the cervical vertebrae (R(2) = 0.40).
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Dang D, Baig MN, Christoforidis G, Chiocca EA, Gabriel J. C2/C3 pathologic fractures from polyostotic fibrous dysplasia of the cervical spine treated with percutaneous vertebroplasty. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2007; 16 Suppl 3:250-4. [PMID: 17665224 PMCID: PMC2148099 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-007-0434-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2007] [Accepted: 06/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We will discuss a potential role of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in the management of patients with severe fibrous dysplasia of the spine with multiple cervical lesions and C2-C3 pathologic fractures that may not be a good surgical candidate. Polyostotic fibrous dysplasia involvement of the cervical spine is rare. Review of literature indicates only few reported cases of surgical management with one case of mortality indicating increased risks associated with surgical intervention. While PVP is commonly used for the treatment of osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebral compression fractures, its role in vertebral stabilization for fibrous dysplasia has not been reported. A 35-year-old man with McCune-Albright syndrome and severe polyostotic fibrous dysplasia of C2 and C3 vertebrae presented with severe neck pain, radiculopathy, quadriparesis and myelopathy. The lesion had pathologic fractures, and there was an os odontoideum with cervical cord atrophy at the C1 level. After discussing need for aggressive surgical management and potential complications, we offered PVP due to surgical risks involved. PVP was performed with a posterolateral transpedicular approach without complication. The patient had remarkable improvement in clinical relief of neck pain and improvement of myelopathic symptoms at 1-year follow-up. We present a case that illustrates a potential use of PVP in the management of a patient with symptomatic spinal fibrous dysplasia with associated pathologic fractures who was poor surgical candidate.
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Chadha M, Agarwal A, Singh AP. Craniovertebral tuberculosis: a retrospective review of 13 cases managed conservatively. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2007; 32:1629-34. [PMID: 17621210 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0b013e318074d41e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review of 13 cases with craniovertebral tuberculosis treated conservatively. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the results of conservative treatment of craniovertebral tuberculosis and compare with the literature. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Craniovertebral tuberculosis is a rare entity even in endemic countries, and there is no consensus in the literature regarding conservative or surgical management for the same. Reports range from radical surgery to totally conservative approach. We report our experience in treating such patients conservatively. METHODS A retrospective review of 13 patients diagnosed with craniovertebral tuberculosis was performed. All patients were treated conservatively with cervical traction for initial 3 months followed by a brace along with multidrug antitubercular drugs for 18 months. RESULTS All patients responded favorably to conservative treatment. Follow-up averaged 43 months (range, 16-65 months). No patient deteriorated neurologically. All patients had symptomatic improvement. Failure to reduce atlantoaxial dislocation/lateral subluxation of the dens completely was seen in 2 cases. CONCLUSIONS We think that all patients with craniovertebral junction tuberculosis can be managed adequately using conservative means regardless of the extent of bony destruction with a good patient outcome. Surgery should be reserved for only a selective few where diagnosis is in doubt and there is initial severe or progressive neural deficit with/without respiratory distress in presence of documented mechanical compression and documented dynamic instability following conservative treatment.
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Doita M, Shimomura T, Maeno K, Nishida K, Fujioka H, Kurosaka M. Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition in the transverse ligament of the atlas: an unusual cause of cervical myelopathy. Skeletal Radiol 2007; 36:699-702. [PMID: 17265158 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-006-0273-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2006] [Revised: 11/21/2006] [Accepted: 12/28/2006] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
A 75-year-old male presented with progressive myelopathy due to massive retro-odontoid deposits of calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate (CPPD) crystals. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a non-enhanced isointense extradural mass on a T1-weighted image and a heterogeneous intense mass on a T2-weighted image. Computed tomography (CT) showed linear calcification within the mass. The mass was resected via a posterolateral approach resulting in marked improvement of the symptoms. Histological examination revealed birefringent rhomboid crystals consistent with CPPD. The preoperative differential diagnosis of periodontoid CPPD deposition disease in the elderly population should be considered, particularly if CT studies demonstrate small areas of calcification within the retro-odontoid mass.
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Big bend for blood pressure? HARVARD HEART LETTER : FROM HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL 2007; 17:6. [PMID: 17654800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
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Feyaerts F, Demeyere A, Van Schaeybroeck P. Eosinophilic granuloma of the atlas and the occipital condyle in an adult. JBR-BTR : ORGANE DE LA SOCIETE ROYALE BELGE DE RADIOLOGIE (SRBR) = ORGAAN VAN DE KONINKLIJKE BELGISCHE VERENIGING VOOR RADIOLOGIE (KBVR) 2007; 90:135. [PMID: 17555077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
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Simsek S, Yigitkanli K, Kazanci A, Belen D, Bavbek M. Medically treated paravertebral Brucella abscess presenting with acute torticollis: case report. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 67:207-10. [PMID: 17254895 DOI: 10.1016/j.surneu.2006.06.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2006] [Accepted: 06/13/2006] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atlantoaxial subluxation secondary to a paravertebral (retropharyngeal) abscess is a well known but rare event in children. CASE DESCRIPTION The authors describe the clinical and radiologic findings of a case of 6-year-old child who presented with acute torticollis (duration, 4 days). Type 2 atlantoaxial rotatory fixation and upper cervical paravertebral (retropharyngeal) abscess were diagnosed on radiologic examination. Laboratory test results showed positive agglutination titer for Brucella melitensis, in the rate of 1/640 dilution. This is the first reported case of Brucella-related atlantoaxial subluxation in a child in the pediatric literature. The patient was treated successfully with anti-inflammatory drugs, Brucella-specific antibiotic regimen, and Philadelphia collar application. Possibly, effusion of the atlantoaxial joint, due to Brucella infection, led to the laxity of the ligaments and contributed to subluxation. CONCLUSIONS Brucella abscess should be kept in mind for the differential diagnosis of retropharyngeal mass, and the torticollis may be the only presenting sign. The authors recommend a trial of medical treatment with adequate dosages for a reasonable length of time and immobilization before considering surgical intervention for the spinal paravertebral Brucella abscess and related atlantoaxial subluxation.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND An alternative technique of atlantoaxial fixation is described, which combines the trans-articular method of fixation described by Magerl in 1982 and the interarticular technique described by us in 1988. METHODS Between January 2001 and January 2005, 18 patients underwent the discussed method of fixation at the Department of Neurosurgery at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India. Fifteen patients had congenital craniovertebral anomaly and 3 patients had posttraumatic atlantoaxial instability. Fourteen patients had basilar invagination with "fixed" atlantoaxial dislocation, and 4 patients had mobile and reducible atlantoaxial dislocation. The mean follow-up period was 22 months (range, 3-50 months). RESULTS Successful atlantoaxial stabilization was achieved in all patients and was documented with dynamic radiography. There was no incidence of implant rejection. There were no neurological, vascular, or infective complications. CONCLUSION The described method of atlantoaxial fixation that incorporates the advantages of the 2 currently more frequently used techniques of lateral mass fixation could be an alternative method of fixation.
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Noske DP, van Royen BJ, Bron JL, Vandertop WP. Basilar impression in osteogenesis imperfecta: can it be treated with halo traction and posterior fusion? Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2006; 148:1301-5; discussion 1305. [PMID: 16969623 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-006-0870-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2006] [Accepted: 07/03/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Basilar impression (BI) and hydrocephalus complicating osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is usually treated by anterior transoral decompression and posterior fixation. Nevertheless, it may be questioned if posterior fusion following axial halo traction is adequate in patients with symptomatic BI complicating OI. We report on a case with progressive symptomatic hydrocephalus and BI complicating OI that was successfully treated by halo traction followed by posterior occipitocervical fusion. However, after a symptom free interval of 2 years the patient suffered from recurrence of symptomatic hydrocephalus needing additional ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement. In conclusion, posterior fusion without additional VP shunt placement may not be effective in the long term for ameliorating symptoms and signs and halting progressive hydrocephalus in BI complicating OI.
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Velat GJ, Reavey-Cantwell JF, Ulm AJ, Lewis SB. Intraoperative dynamic angiography to detect resolution of Bow Hunter's syndrome: Technical case report. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 66:420-3; discussion 423. [PMID: 17015129 DOI: 10.1016/j.surneu.2006.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2006] [Accepted: 03/23/2006] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bow Hunter's syndrome is a rare form of vertebrobasilar insufficiency that may be successfully treated by surgical intervention. Use of intraoperative dynamic transcranial Doppler ultrasound for surgical treatment of vertebrobasilar insufficiency has been described in literature. However, this technique was inconsistent and unreliable in some patients. We present a case of a patient with Bow Hunter's syndrome treated surgically and emphasize the valuable addition of intraoperative dynamic angiography to determine resolution of vertebral artery compromise. CASE DESCRIPTION The patient was a 58-year-old man with complaints of dizziness, vertigo, and near-syncopal episodes that occurred when he rotated his head to the left. Imaging revealed compromise of the dominant left vertebral artery with leftward head rotation. An anterior cervical approach with decompression of the left subaxial vertebral artery was performed. Significant osteophyte formation was observed. Removal of bone and decompression of the vertebral artery was performed. Intraoperative dynamic angiography confirmed resolution of vertebral artery compression and minimized the amount of decompression. No further intervention was required. CONCLUSION Intraoperative dynamic angiography is a definitive test to determine hemodynamic resolution of Bow Hunter's syndrome. It offers real-time feedback of vertebral artery decompression, potentially minimizes the amount of decompression, and can be performed safely.
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Abstract
Cervical myelopathy caused by atlantal hypoplasia has been reported in only 11 patients. Atlantal hypoplasia combined with torticollis has not been reported. Rotation of the atlantoaxial joint causes spinal canal narrowing at the atlantoaxial level and stretches the vertebral artery, which may aggravate the symptoms and signs of compressive cervical myelopathy from atlantal hypoplasia. We present a patient with cervical myelopathy from atlantal hypoplasia, retrodental pseudotumor, and torticollis.
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Browd S, Healy LJ, Dobie G, Johnson JT, Jones GM, Rodriguez LF, Brockmeyer DL. Morphometric and qualitative analysis of congenital occipitocervical instability in children: implications for patients with Down syndrome. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2006; 105:50-4. [PMID: 16871870 DOI: 10.3171/ped.2006.105.1.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Congenital occipitocervical (OC) instability is uncommon in healthy children but can occur in many children with Down syndrome. A simple morphometric method of evaluating the OC joint in children with OC instability is presented, supported by a qualitative image analysis based on computed tomography (CT). METHODS Thin-cut CT scans of the OC joint were obtained in eight patients with Down syndrome and one patient with congenital OC instability. These patients' CT scans were compared with those of 15 healthy age-matched control individuals. Morphometric analysis was performed by measuring the depth and length of the superior articular surface (SAS) of C-1, and these values were normalized for a comparison between groups. Qualitative data were acquired using a surface-rendering technique for a visual comparison of the C-1 SAS. Morphometric analysis demonstrated an absence of the concave C-1 SAS anatomy in patients with congenital OC instability compared with age-matched control individuals (0.083 compared with 0.202, p < 0.001). Three-dimensional (3D) image analysis of the C-l SAS supported this finding. CONCLUSIONS Congenital differences in the shape of the OC joint are highly associated with atraumatic OC instability in children with Down syndrome. High-resolution CT imaging combined with 3D rendering techniques and surface mapping provides support for this assessment. It appears that abnormal OC joint shape is a contributing factor to congenital OC instability, especially in patients with Down syndrome.
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George B, Archilli M, Cornelius JF. Bone tumors at the cranio-cervical junction. Surgical management and results from a series of 41 cases. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2006; 148:741-9; discussion 749. [PMID: 16708168 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-006-0789-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2005] [Accepted: 07/26/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bone tumors located at the cranio-cervical junction (CCJ)are rare. Tumoral involvement of the neighbouring structures including bone, nerves and vertebral artery and the dynamic aspects of the bone structures raise technical difficulties in the surgical approach. The surgical management includes tumoral resection and stabilization of the CCJ. METHODS Forty-one patients presenting a bone tumor (26 benign and 15 malignant tumors), excluding chordomas, located at the CCJ (including lower third of the clivus, C1 and C2) were observed over 20 years from 1981 to 2001. Imaging work-up included CT scanner with bone windows sequences and reconstruction in the coronal and sagittal plane; since 1984 most of the patients (N=35) underwent a MRI and angioMR scanning. Vertebral angiography was rarely performed (N=9) and mostly when the diagnosis was doubtful. In some cases the diagnosis was clear but in others, imaging studies showed destructive lesions suggesting a malignancy, which sometimes required a biopsy (N=4). The surgical resection was only performed through a lateral approach. FINDINGS Complete resection was achieved in 38 cases while in 3 cases a small remnant was left behind. A complementary stabilization procedure was necessary in 18 cases using either bone grafting during the same procedure and through the same approach (N=5) or a craniocervical plating and bone grafting (N=13). No recurrence in the group of benign tumors was seen during an average follow-up of 6 years (from 2 to 11 years). The pre-operative symptoms of pain and neck stiffness, improved or disappeared in most patients. Three patients with lower cranial nerves (N=2) or sphincter disturbances (N=1) remained unchanged. One patient with tetraplegia eventually died. CONCLUSIONS Various types of bone tumors may be found at the CCJ. Confusion between benign and malignant tumor or pseudo tumors must be avoided, sometimes requiring a biopsy. Surgery using a lateral approach, usually permits the surgeon to achieve a complete resection either preserving the stability of the CCJ whenever intact or associated with a stabilization procedure.
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Mohindra S, Gupta SK, Mohindra S, Gupta R. Unusual presentations of craniovertebral junction tuberculosis: a report of 2 cases and literature review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 66:94-9; discussion 99. [PMID: 16793457 DOI: 10.1016/j.surneu.2005.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2005] [Accepted: 11/02/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CVJ tuberculosis is a described entity requiring challenging ways of management. Severe neck pain, causing restricted neck movements and torticollis, is a characteristic presentation of neurologically asymptomatic suboccipital Pott's disease. CASE DESCRIPTION Two patients with unusual CVJ tuberculosis form the basis for the present communication. The first patient presented with tubercular otitis media, causing progressive erosion of the petrous part of temporal bone, and destruction of the occipital condyle, along with the lateral mass of atlas, leading to CVJ instability. This is a first report of such a presentation, according to our knowledge. Detailed bony architectural destruction demonstrable on CT scan has been described. The second patient, with CVJ tuberculosis, presented with skull base syndrome and with multiple cranial nerve palsies. Both patients were managed without surgical intervention and showed clinical and radiological recovery. CONCLUSION In such patients with unusual clinical presentations, histopathologic examination is necessary to arrive at a correct diagnosis. The management of patients with tubercular involvement of CVJ remains controversial. In the present communication, both the patients were managed successfully with full dose of antitubercular drugs and immobilization.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Axis, Cervical Vertebra/diagnostic imaging
- Axis, Cervical Vertebra/microbiology
- Axis, Cervical Vertebra/pathology
- Cervical Atlas/diagnostic imaging
- Cervical Atlas/microbiology
- Cervical Atlas/pathology
- Cranial Nerve Diseases/diagnosis
- Cranial Nerve Diseases/microbiology
- Cranial Nerve Diseases/physiopathology
- Disease Progression
- Ear, Middle/diagnostic imaging
- Ear, Middle/microbiology
- Ear, Middle/pathology
- Early Diagnosis
- Female
- Humans
- Hypoglossal Nerve/microbiology
- Hypoglossal Nerve/pathology
- Hypoglossal Nerve/physiopathology
- India
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neck Pain/diagnosis
- Neck Pain/microbiology
- Neck Pain/physiopathology
- Occipital Bone/diagnostic imaging
- Occipital Bone/microbiology
- Occipital Bone/pathology
- Otitis Media/complications
- Otitis Media/diagnosis
- Otitis Media/microbiology
- Skull Base/diagnostic imaging
- Skull Base/microbiology
- Skull Base/pathology
- Temporal Bone/diagnostic imaging
- Temporal Bone/microbiology
- Temporal Bone/pathology
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed
- Tuberculosis, Spinal/diagnosis
- Tuberculosis, Spinal/physiopathology
- Tuberculosis, Spinal/therapy
- Vagus Nerve/microbiology
- Vagus Nerve/pathology
- Vagus Nerve/physiopathology
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Ashley WW, Rivet D, Cross DT, Santiago P. Development of a giant cervical vertebral artery pseudoaneurysm after a traumatic C1 fracture: case illustration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 66:80-1. [PMID: 16793451 DOI: 10.1016/j.surneu.2005.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2005] [Accepted: 11/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kagawa M, Jinnai T, Matsumoto Y, Kawai N, Kunishio K, Tamiya T, Nagao S. Chiari I malformation accompanied by assimilation of the atlas, Klippel-Feil syndrome, and syringomyelia: case report. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 65:497-502; discussion 502. [PMID: 16630916 DOI: 10.1016/j.surneu.2005.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2005] [Accepted: 06/27/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chiari I malformation, accompanied by superposed bony anomaly of the craniovertebral junction, is comparatively rare. We report a case of Chiari I malformation accompanied by assimilation of the atlas, Klippel-Feil syndrome, and syringomyelia. CASE DESCRIPTION The patient was a 61-year-old woman demonstrating numbness of the extremities, sensory impairment, muscular weakness, and tendon hyper-reflexia. X-ray images and CT scans demonstrated assimilation of the atlas to the occipital bone, C2 and C3 fusion, abnormal passage of the vertebral arteries, and an anomalous bony mass on the right lateral mass of the atlas protruding into the spinal column. The odontoid process was also deviated to the left. Magnetic resonance images demonstrated bilateral descent of the cerebellar tonsils and syringomyelia extending from C6 to T8. Computed tomographic scans with the head rotated to the right demonstrated increased narrowing of the vertebral column caused by the right lateral mass of the atlas, and MR images confirmed exaggerated deformation of the spinal cord at the same region. This deformation manifested no neurologic symptoms, and we therefore performed foramen magnum decompression and duraplasty using Gore-Tex (W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc., Flagstaff, AZ). In the early postoperative period, neurologic symptoms improved. CONCLUSION We believe it is important that a treatment plan for Chiari I malformation accompanied by bony anomaly of the craniovertebral junction be determined based on morphologic investigation of the region supplemented by dynamic imaging-based evaluation of instability, or a careful inspection for atypical passage of the vertebral arteries, a frequent site of complication.
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