Atlantoaxial rotatory fixation after decompressive laminectomy. A case report

A case of atlantoaxial rotatory fixation and kyphosis in an 8.5-year-old boy following decompressive laminectomy for spinal cord tumor is described. Halo gravity traction was used to reduce the deformity, and then stabilization was performed from C1 through C5 via the anterior approach and with the use of iliac and fibular bone graft. The case is unique in that anterolateral rotatory fixation was combined with kyphosis in the upper cervical spine. It is reemphasized that all children who undergo decompressive laminectomy be observed closely or stabilized at the time of laminectomy.