Regression of Retro-odontoid Pseudotumor Using External Orthosis without Atlantoaxial Fusion: A Case Report. Issue 3 (July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nakazawa, Toshiyuki; Inoue, Gen; Imura, Takayuki; Miyagi, Masayuki; Saito, Wataru; Shirasawa, Eiki; Kawakubo, Ayumu; Takaso, Masashi
• Is Part Of: JBJS case connector. Volume 9:Issue 3(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-07
• Subjects: Orthopedic surgery -- Case studies -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery -- Periodicals; Orthopedics; Orthopedic Procedures; Orthopedic surgery; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Case studies; Periodicals; 616.7
• DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.18.00329
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2160-3251

Abstract

Abstract : Case: We treated an 87-year-old woman with noninflammatory retro-odontoid pseudotumor induced by atlantoaxial instability (AAI) using only a Philadelphia collar. Because of perioperative risk factors, fusion surgery was canceled; nevertheless, the neurological symptoms improved gradually. After 11 months of nonoperative treatment, the follow-up magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated that the pseudotumor's size was obviously diminished. Orthosis was applied for 2 years, and after its removal, the pseudotumor's size remained the same at the final 7-year follow-up. Conclusions: External orthosis is one treatment option for pseudotumor with AAI, especially in patients with significant comorbidities for whom surgical procedures are relatively contraindicated.