BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis can cause extensive osseo-ligamentous destruction at the cranio-vertebral junction, leading to atlanto-axial instability and compression of vital cervico-medullary centres. This may manifest as quadriparesis, bulbar dysfunction and respiratory insufficiency. AIM: We report two patients presenting with spinal stenosis and cord compression secondary to cranio-vertebral tuberculosis, who were successfully decompressed via an endoscopic, endonasal approach. STUDY DESIGN: Two case reports. METHODS AND RESULTS: Both patients were successfully decompressed via an endoscopic, endonasal approach which provided access to the cranio-vertebral junction and upper cervical spine. CONCLUSION: An endoscopic, endonasal approach is feasible for the surgical management of cranio-vertebral junction stenosis; such an approach minimises surgical trauma to critical structures, reducing post-operative morbidity and the duration of hospital stay
Keywords : Adult,Atlanto-Axial Joint,Cervical Vertebrae,complications,Decompression,Surgical,Endoscopy,etiology,Female,Humans,Male,methods,Middle Aged,Morbidity,Nasal Cavity,Respiratory Insufficiency,secondary,Skull,Spinal Cord Compression,Spinal Stenosis,Spine,surgery,Treatment Outcome,Tuberculosis,Tuberculosis,Osteoarticular,Tuberculosis,Spinal,, Endonasal,Decompression,Spinal,Stenosis, nerve pain groin
Date of Publication : 2010 Jul
Authors : Puraviappan P;Tang IP;Yong DJ;Prepageran N;Carrau RL;Kassam AB;
Organisation : ORL Department, Faculty of Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
Journal of Publication : J Laryngol Otol
Pubmed Link : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20003599
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