Endoscopic transnasal decompression for management of basilar invagination in osteogenesis imperfecta

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a disorder of bone development caused by a genetic dysfunction of collagen synthesis. Basilar invagination (BI) is an uncommon but serious complication of OI. Brainstem decompression in OI is undertaken in certain circumstances. Transoral-transpalatopharyngeal ventral decompression with posterior occipitocervical fusion has become the treatment of choice when required. This technical note outlines a novel endoscopic transnasal approach for ventral decompression. The literature is reviewed and a strategy for the management of BI in patients with OI is outlined.