A MODIFIED PIN AND WIRING TECHNIQUE FOR OCCIPITOCERVICAL FUSION IN A CHILD WITH OCCIPITALIZATION OF THE ATLAS: A CASE REPORT

ABSTRACT

A rare case of occipitalization of the atlas with spinomedullary compression was reported. Thechild presented with neck pain and quadriplegia. Radiographic images showed occipito-atlantalinstability. Posterior stabilization was performed using a contoured pin modifi ed in Maharaj NakornChiang Mai Hospital, wiring, and strut bone grafts between the occiput and C4 vertebra. Use of themodifi ed pin and wiring technique, as described herein, achieved solid bone fusion and maintainedstable constructs. The patient has shown symptomatic improvement and no remarkable complicationsafter 5 years postoperatively.Chiang Mai Medical Journal 2010;49(1)35-39.