Pseudoarthrosis following fracture of left lamina of C2 vertebra causing compressive myelopathy

Abstract

Pseudoarthrosis involving lamina of C2 vertebra requiring intervention is very rare. We report the unusual case of a 38-year-old man presenting with pseudoarthrosis of an old fracture involving left lamina of C2 vertebra. The patient presented with progressive spastic quadriparesis and history of sustaining injury to his neck 15 years ago. Imaging showed pseudoarthrosis involving the left lamina of C2 vertebra with significant cord compression. Posterior approach was used and decompressive laminectomy was done at C2 and C3 levels with removal of the affected segment with pseudoarthrosis. The postoperative period was uneventful and the neurological recovery was good.

Keywords

• Pseudoarthrosis
• Axis fracture
• Myelopathy