Abstract
Purpose
Hemivertebra within the craniovertebral junction is a rare but complex spinal deformity. Torticollis caused by hemi-atlas is extremely rare. There is no consensus on the treatment of these patients. We present our experience with one case of hemi-atlas excision and torticollis correction via a combined anterior–posterior surgical approach and short-segment fixation.
Methods
An 11-year-old girl with progressive torticollis due to hemi-atlas underwent surgery consisting of combined anterior–posterior hemivertebra resection and instrumentation and had a follow up of 20 months. Pre- and postoperative radiographic features, as well as clinical outcomes, were evaluated.
Results
The patient had complete recovery of torticollis at a 20-month follow-up. Radiographs showed favorable deformity correction, well-balanced coronal and sagittal alignment, and solid bony fusion.
Conclusion
For patients with congenital cervical hemivertebra within the craniovertebral junction, combined anterior–posterior hemivertebra resection with instrumentation allows for satisfactory deformity correction and good cosmetic improvement.
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All data analyzed during this study are included in this article.
References
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Contributions
Xuhui Zhou were responsible for the study design. Jinhui Wu and Rui Gao were responsible for performing the clinical procedures. Zhuyun Cai, Yichen Meng, and Xiang Li were responsible for manuscript drafting. All authors have critically reviewed and approved the final manuscript.
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This study has been approved by the ethics and research committee of Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University. The procedures used in this study adhere to the tenets of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent was obtained from the patient’s parents for publication of this case report and any accompanying images.
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The authors declare no competing interests.
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Cai, Z., Meng, Y., Li, X. et al. Hemi-atlas resection by combined approach: case report, literature review, and technical note. Childs Nerv Syst 38, 2239–2244 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-022-05583-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-022-05583-8