Related Experiment Videos
C2/3 instability in a child with Down's syndrome . case report and discussion
J S Citow1, I Munshi, T Chang-Stroman
1Sections of Neurosurgery and Orthopedics, University of Chicago Children's Hospital, Chicago, Ill., USA.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
|August 15, 1998
Summary
Cervical instability in Down syndrome patients can occur at the C2/3 level, not just C1/2. This case report highlights successful posterior fusion treatment for this rare presentation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Genetics
Background:
- Down syndrome is associated with cervical ligamentous laxity, typically at the C1/2 level.
- Cervical instability poses a risk for spinal cord injury in affected individuals.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old girl with Down syndrome presented with C2/3 instability (9 mm anterolisthesis).
- Despite no overt neurological deficits, MRI revealed spinal cord signal changes.
- Posterior fusion was performed, with initial brace intolerance.
Findings:
- This represents a rare case of C2/3 instability in Down syndrome.
- The patient achieved stable fusion with residual C2/3 anterolisthesis (5 mm).
- Posterior fusion is a viable treatment for C2/3 instability in this population.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for C2/3 instability in Down syndrome patients.
- Suggests the need for vigilance in screening for cervical instability beyond the C1/2 level.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of surgical intervention for C2/3 instability in Down syndrome.