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Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele presenting as dysphagia after atlantooccipital dislocation
David M Cognetti1, W Scott Enochs, Thomas O Willcox
1Departments of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. david.cognetti@mail.tju.edu
Educational Objective:
At the conclusion of this paper, the readers should be able to recognize a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele as a potential complication of atlanto occipital dislocation.
Objectives:
To demonstrate how a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele may present as dysphagia in a patient who is recovering from atlanto occipital dislocation as well as to discuss the treatment options in this situation.
Study Design:
Case report and literature review.
Methods:
Analysis of a case through medical record and literature review.
Results:
A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele is a very rare complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. It may develop weeks after the initial injury and can present with respiratory or swallowing difficulties. Decompression via a ventriculoperitoneal or lumboperitoneal shunt facilitates resolution of the cerebral spinal fluid collection.
Conclusions:
A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele should be considered in all patients status post-atlanto occipital dislocation who are experiencing respiratory distress or dysphagia.
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