Retro-Odontoid Pseudotumor Formation in the Context of Various Acquired and Congenital Pathologies of the Craniovertebral Junction and Surgical Techniques

• DOI: 10.14245/ns.2040402.201
• Publication Date: 2020-11-17T15:34:54Z
• Authors: Brian Fiani; Rebecca Houston; Imran Siddiqi; Mohammad Arshad; Taylor Reardon; Brandon Gilliland; Cyrus Davati; Athanasios Kondilis
• Keywords: Pannus; Atlantoaxial instability; Basilar invagination; Atlanto-axial joint; Neck pain

Retro-odontoid pseudotumor formation consists of an abnormal growth granulation tissue typically posterior to the odontoid process, resulting as a manifestation atlantoaxial instability. This instability can occur result conditions ranging from severe mechanical trauma metabolic disease or autoimmune such rheumatoid arthritis. A may impinge on spinal nerves even cord and brainstem, manifesting symptoms neck pain cervicomedullary compression myelopathy, in some cases sudden death. The objective this review is consolidate findings published case reports relevant prior literature reviews regarding retro-odontoid pseudotumor. We address pathophysiology involved acquired congenital formation, including those associated with arthritis (panni). Additionally, we discuss past current operative techniques designed curtail ultimately regress pannus. Surgical that are addressed include ventral decompression (both transoral transnasal), dorsal decompression, indications for instrumentation pannus particularly be sufficiently treated lieu anterior approach. Finally, will examine role external orthoses both method conservative treatment well potential adjunct aforementioned surgical procedures. Keywords: Pseudotumor, Pannus, Craniocervical junction, Cervical spine, Retro-odontoid, Odontoid