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Os odontoideum: a case report and review
1Department of Neurosurgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, ROC.
Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi = Chinese Medical Journal; Free China Ed
|January 13, 1999
Summary
Odontoid anomalies, including os odontoideum, can cause atlantoaxial instability. Surgical fusion of C1-C2 vertebrae successfully treated a patient with os odontoideum and limb numbness.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Odontoid anomalies encompass five distinct types, all potentially causing atlantoaxial instability.
- Clinical presentations and treatments for these anomalies are often similar, with radiographic findings being key differentiators.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old male presented with progressive right-sided limb numbness.
- Cervical radiography and MRI confirmed os odontoideum.
Findings:
- Os odontoideum, a type of odontoid anomaly, was diagnosed.
- Surgical stabilization involved autogenous iliac bone fusion and Halifax interlaminar clamp fixation.
- Posterior fusion of the C1-C2 vertebrae resulted in a successful outcome.
Implications:
- Accurate radiographic diagnosis is crucial for differentiating odontoid anomalies.
- Surgical management, including C1-C2 posterior fusion, offers an effective treatment for symptomatic os odontoideum.
- Understanding the variations, etiology, and surgical options for odontoid anomalies is vital for patient care.