A combined approach for stabilization and endoscopic/ endonasal odontoid and clivus resection for treatment of basilar invagination

BACKGROUND: Basilar invagination (BI) is a complex condition characterized by prolapse of the odontoid into the brain stem/upper cervical cord. This lesion is often associated with Chiari malformations, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Treatment options for BI typically include cervical traction, an isolated anterior transoral odontoidectomy, anterior endonasal odontoidectomy, an isolated posterior fusion, or combined anterior/ posterior surgical approach. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 45-year-old female with a Chiari I malformation and RA underwent a combined posterior C0-C5 posterior decompression/fusion, followed by an anterior odontoidectomy (i.e. endoscopic/endonasal under neuronavigation). Postoperatively, the patient’s symptoms and neurological signs resolved. CONCLUSION: BI in was successfully managed with a combined posterior C0-C5 decompression/fusion followed by an anterior endoscopic/endonasal odontoidectomy performed under neuronavigation.