Recurrent Atlantoaxial Rotatory Fixation after failed posterior fusion: A Case Report & Review of the Literature.

Abstract

Background Data: AARF is a well-known disease entity as well as its recurrent form. However, recurrent AARF after posterior fusion was not reported before. This is the first report of a case of revisited recurrent AARF2 years after posterior fusion. Purpose: To describe the clinical and radiographic featuresand management of revisited recurrent AARF. Study Design: Case report. Methods: A type II AARF as described by Fielding recurred shortly after external orthosis in an 8 years old girl. She was subjected to traction until reduction and modified Sonntag fusion. The condition recurred after 2 years. She was put into traction for reduction. She was subjected for Harms’ posterior fusion. Results: Traction followed by C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle screw fixation and fusion was successful in the management of a recurrent AARF. Conclusion: Recurrent AARF can occur even after failed posterior fusion. Harms’ posterior fusion is a sound procedure for the management of recurrent AARF.(2012ESJ015)

Keywords

• Atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation
• torticollis
• Atlantoaxial rotatory fixation
• recurrent AARF