Atlantoaxial instability associated with C2 odontoid abnormality in patients with Down syndrome: description of two clinical cases with the author’s modification of stabilization

Objective. To present two clinical cases of successful surgical treatment of atlantoaxial instability in Down syndrome patients with os odontoideum.

Material and Methods. The results of surgical treatment of atlantoaxial instability in two Down syndrome patients with os odontoideum were analyzed. The neuroorthopedic status of the craniovertebral junction was evaluated perioperatively according to CT and MRI (ADI, Swischuk test, Power’s ratio). The assessment of the patients’ quality of life was carried out using the Y.A. Orlov scales.

Results. The presented clinical cases demonstrate the results of reconstructive and stabilizing correction of C1–C2 instability using the Goel – Shah method combined with original patented technique.

Conclusion. The use of the Goel – Shah method in combination with remodeling of the C1–C2 articular facets (original patented technique) provides optimal correction of instability in C2 anomalies in patients with Down syndrome.

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