C1-C2 coronal and sagittal joint angle based treatment algorithm for the need of transoral odointectomy in complex craniovertebral junction anomalies with Clinico-Radiological outcome analysis

Abstract

Objective Craniovertebral junction (CVJ) pathology by virtue of its complexity is a surgical challenge in the realm of neurosurgery. We analyzed the need for transoral odointectomy in view of their C1-C2 joint coronal and sagittal angle of 58 patients with complex CVJ anomalies treated surgically. The clinical and radiological outcome of the patients was assessed and a treatment algorithm is proposed. Methods A total of 58 cases were included in the Prospective study over the period of 2 years. Patients were evaluated clinically, investigated, and operated with reduction and rigid internal fixation with screws and rod. The clinical outcome was measured by Modified Japanese orthopedic association score(mJOA) and radiologically by conventional craniometrics indices. Paired ‘t’ test used for statistical analysis. Results Mean age of patients: 30 years, with mean, follow up: 20.5 months. 46(80%) patients were operated by posterior and 12(20%) by combined approach (anterior transoral with posterior). Occipitocervial fixation was done in 15(25.8%) cases and C1-C2 fixation in 43(74.2%) cases. As compared to patients with low coronal angle, the patient with coronal angle >65° needed anterior decompression (87.5%) and all (100%) had Occipitocervical fixation. Clinical outcome analysis showed significant improvement in mean mJOA score (preop 11.9 Vs postop 14.6) after surgery. All craniometrics indices were significantly improved after surgery. The overall complication rate was 10% with a mortality of 1.7%. 6 months follow up completed in all patients with a 100% fusion rate. Conclusion Occipitocervical fixation and anterior decompression is required in increased C1-C2 joint CA (>65°) for bony realignment and adequate decompression. Measurement of C1-C2 joint coronal and sagittal angle in complex CVJ anomalies will easily anticipate the surgeon regarding the need for anterior decompression inform of transoral odointectomy.