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Radiological analysis of ponticulus posticus in Koreans
1Department of Neurosurgery, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. yongcho@ewha.ac.kr
Yonsei Medical Journal
|March 5, 2009
Summary
The ponticulus posticus, a bony anomaly in the cervical spine, is common in Koreans, with a 15.5% prevalence found on 3D CT scans. Surgeons should identify this anomaly to avoid complications during lateral mass screw placement.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Radiology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- The ponticulus posticus is an anatomical variation of the atlas.
- Limited data exists on its prevalence and morphology in Asian populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and morphological characteristics of the ponticulus posticus in Koreans.
- To assess the utility of 3D CT scans and plain radiographs for identifying this anomaly.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 200 cervical 3D CT scans and plain radiographs.
- Evaluation of the presence and types of ponticulus posticus (complete/partial, bilateral/unilateral).
Main Results:
- Prevalence of ponticulus posticus was 15.5% on 3D CT scans and 6.95% on plain radiographs.
- Thirty-one patients with 48 ponticulus posticus anomalies were identified.
Conclusions:
- Ponticulus posticus is a common anomaly in Koreans.
- Preoperative identification is crucial for surgeons to avoid using it as a starting point for lateral mass screws.
- 3D CT scanning is recommended for detailed assessment when the anomaly is suspected or confirmed.
