Abstract
We reviewed 6 patients with atlanto-axial (C1-2) deformities secondary to neglected odontoid fractures. All patients (except one with recent injury) were asymptomatic for a long period before development of neck pain or myelopathy, despite obvious subluxation and kyphotic deformities at the C1-2 joint complex. Patients were treated conservatively, except for one who underwent posterior spinal fusion and occiput-to-C2 decompression for progressive myelopathy. The reactive new bone formation around the odontoid fracture may play a role in preventing further movement and development of myelopathy. Conservative treatment should be considered for neglected odontoid fractures in elderly patients with stable non-progressive C1-2 deformity.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.