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European Spine Journal

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01-05-2017 | Case Report

Odontoid osteomyelitis with atlantoaxial subluxation in an infant

Authors: Hoon Park, Hyung Kwon Byeon, Hak-Sun Kim, Jung Jun Hong, Kyung-Soo Suk

Published in: European Spine Journal | Special Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Purpose

To report a rare case of odontoid osteomyelitis with atlantoaxial subluxation in a 6-month-old infant.

Background

Odontoid osteomyelitis with atlantoaxial subluxation is extremely rare in children. Although several cases have been reported, there have been no studies concerning proper surgical drainage and immobilization in this disease.

Methods

A 6-month-old infant with odontoid osteomyelitis with atlantoaxial subluxation was surgically treated. The patient underwent a 3-month intravenous and oral antibiotic course and the Minerva body jacket cast was used for 3 months. Follow-up was carried out with computed tomographic scans and a cervical spine dynamogram.

Results

At 18 months post-surgery, the patient had completely recovered with no cervical instability. Computed tomographic scans revealed complete fusion of odontoid synchondrosis. The infant remained asymptomatic with a full range of head movement.

Conclusion

Surgical drainage and proper immobilization appears to be a satisfactory treatment for pyogenic osteomyelitis of odontoid synchondrosis secondary to retropharyngeal abscess and atlantoaxial subluxation.

Level of evidence

N/A.

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Title: Odontoid osteomyelitis with atlantoaxial subluxation in an infant
Authors: Hoon Park
Hyung Kwon Byeon
Hak-Sun Kim
Jung Jun Hong
Kyung-Soo Suk
Publication date: 01-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue Special Issue 1/2017
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-016-4919-0

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Odontoid osteomyelitis with atlantoaxial subluxation in an infant

Abstract

Purpose

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Level of evidence

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Level of evidence

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