C1-C2 sublaminar taping for displaced odontoid synchondrosis fracture in an infant: A case report and novel surgical technique

Pediatric cervical spine injuries are rare, and the diagnosis and management can be challenging. Surgical intervention has been recommended in unstable odontoid synchondrosis injuries or those that have failed nonoperative measures. However, the literature remains sparse on the operative management of severe injuries due to the low incidence. An 18-month-old female sustained an unstable odontoid synchondrosis fracture from a motor vehicle accident. Due to ongoing instability after initial immobilization in a halo, the decision was made to proceed with surgical management. With the patient positioned prone and neural monitoring throughout, a posterior approach was utilized. Subperiosteal exposure of the C1 posterior arch was performed bilaterally. A spinal fixation band was passed under the right C1 posterior arch, around the C2 spinous process, under the left C1 posterior arch, and finally back under the C2 spinous process. The C1-C2 distraction was reduced using intraoperative imaging, and the sublaminar tape construct was secured and reinforced. The halo was then reattached. Postoperative recovery was complicated by a halo pin-site infection which was treated with oral antibiotics. The halo was removed after 3 months, following a computerized tomography that demonstrated union. X-rays at 6 months revealed anatomical alignment with the union. Surgery is recommended in pediatric odontoid synchondrosis fractures refractory to nonoperative management. Sublaminar taping of C1-C2 with a spinal fixation band has been demonstrated to be an effective surgical technique in the management of an unstable odontoid synchondrosis fracture.