Vertebroplasty of C2 Pathologic Fracture: A Unique Case Report Using a Curved-Needle Technique

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Minimally invasive vertebroplasty is an established treatment for thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures.
• Cervical spine vertebroplasty is less common due to proximity of critical neural and vascular structures.
• The standard posterolateral approach requires lesions to be in a straight needle trajectory, limiting medial C2 treatment.

Observation:

• A case report details the treatment of a destructive, medial C2 vertebra metastatic lesion.
• The posterolateral approach was utilized, typically limiting access to medial lesions.
• A curved needle was employed to navigate critical structures and reach the medial C2 lesion.

Findings:

• Successful and safe treatment of a medial C2 vertebra metastatic lesion was achieved.
• The posterolateral approach was adapted using a curved needle for medial access.
• Imaging and careful technique were crucial for avoiding complications.

Implications:

• This technique expands the applicability of the posterolateral approach for cervical spine vertebroplasty.
• It offers a minimally invasive option for previously challenging medial C2 vertebral lesions.
• Further research may validate this curved needle technique for similar complex cases.