Atlantoaxial dislocation with vertebral artery anomaly: A case report.

Abstract

Background: Surgical intervention is a critical treatment approach for symptomatic atlantoaxial dislocation. However, vertebral artery injury remains a significant challenge during such procedures. We present a case of successful treatment of atlantoaxial dislocation with concurrent vertebral artery injury using interlaminar screw technology, and review the relevant literature.

Case summary: A 69-year-old female patient, with no history of trauma, was diagnosed with atlantoaxial dislocation based on X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging. Preoperative CT angiography (CTA) revealed vertebral artery developmental anomalies, and she underwent posterior cervical surgery. Postoperative follow-up showed improvement in the patient's clinical symptoms such as unstable walking and dizziness, as well as functional scores compared to pre-surgery. Intraoperative vertebral artery injury was successfully managed, and postoperative CTA review revealed no complications related to vascular damage.

Conclusion: Thorough preoperative evaluation, such as CTA imaging, and the surgeon's expertise in various spinal screw placement techniques are crucial for improving the success rate of atlantoaxial dislocation surgeries.