A unique approach to fixed occipito-cervico-thoracic deformity

J Clin Neurosci. 2013 Apr;20(4):608-11. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2012.03.038. Epub 2013 Jan 11.

Abstract

We discuss a unique approach to a patient who presented with severe kyphosis and laterolisthesis of the cranio-cervico-thoracic spine, following a history of neck trauma 24months prior to presentation. The patient had organized voluntary euthanasia if no treatment could be performed. Our approach included a three-part procedure over a 3-week time interval, including: initial traction, division of anterior neck muscles, multilevel anterior fusion and, finally, posterior occipito-cervico-thoracic fusion. Follow-up at 6months revealed a patient in neutral sagittal and coronal balance of the neck.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls
  • Atlanto-Occipital Joint / abnormalities*
  • Atlanto-Occipital Joint / surgery*
  • Cervical Vertebrae / abnormalities*
  • Cervical Vertebrae / surgery*
  • Female
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / etiology
  • Humans
  • Kyphosis / etiology
  • Kyphosis / surgery
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Middle Aged
  • Neck Muscles / pathology
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Postural Balance / physiology
  • Spinal Fusion
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / abnormalities*
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / surgery*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Traction
  • Treatment Outcome