[Instability of atlanto-axial complex in a boy with isolated odontoid process]

The authors present a case of a 14-years old boy, in whom, after a mild trauma, massive signs of cervical spinal cord injury appeared. Isolated odontoid process with instability of atlanto-axial complex proved to be the cause. In course of therapy with methylprednisolone and rehabilitation full recovery was achieved. The operative management consisted in posterior interlaminar stabilization C1-C2 with autologous bone transplant and titanium cable (Sof'wire). The etiology of this disturbance is discussed and operation method is presented.