A Safe and Effective Posterior Intra-Articular Distraction Technique to Treat Congenital Atlantoaxial Dislocation Associated With Basilar Invagination: Case Series and Technical Nuances

Abstract BACKGROUND The management of atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) associated with basilar invagination (BI) is challenging, and traditional posterior-only approaches lack the ability to release the anterior soft tissue resulting in unsatisfactory reduction. Furthermore, vertebral artery anomalies and deformed anatomy increase surgical risks. OBJECTIVE To introduce a safe and efficient technique to reduce congenital AAD and BI through a single-stage posterior-only approach. METHODS A total of 65 patients with AAD and concomitant BI who had congenital osseous abnormalities were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had anterior soft tissue released through a posterior-only approach, followed by intra-facet cages implantation, cantilever correction, and instrumentation. Clinical results were measured using the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scale, and radiographic measurements included the atlanto-dental interval, the distance of odontoid tip above Chamberlain's line, clivus-canal angle (CCA), and syrinx length. Paired t -tests were used to compare preoperative and postoperative measurements. RESULTS The mean JOA score increased from 10.98 to 14.40 at 1-yr follow-up. Complete reduction of AAD and BI was achieved in 48 patients (73.8%). The mean CCA improved from 115° preoperatively to 129° postoperatively. Reduction of syrinx size was observed in 14 patients at 1 wk and in 35 patients 1 yr after surgery. All patients achieved bony fusion. CONCLUSION Posterior intra-articular distraction followed by cage implantation and cantilever correction can achieve complete reduction in most cases of congenitally anomalous AAD associated with BI.