Osteochondroma of axis vertebra treated with en bloc resection and arthrodesis

Abstract

Osteochondromas are capped benign bony neoplasm that forms on the outer surface of the bone. They are most commonly found in appendicular skeletal but rare in the spine. The cervical spine is commonly involved in spinal osteochondromas. Here we discuss a case of a 24-year-old male with osteochondroma arising from the posterior arch of C2 (axis) vertebra presenting with myelopathy. Most of the cases are asymptomatic needing only observation. Surgery is needed in case of progressive neurologic deficit. It is recommended to do an en bloc resection of the lesion along with cartilage cap to prevent recurrence and spinal stabilization with arthrodesis to avoid postoperative kyphosis.